New Dominican Hard Rock comes under fire

In the Dominican Republic, local residents have outlined their opposition to a casino currently under construction in the capital Santo Domingo.

A new 38-storey tower will house a 23,000sq.ft gaming extension to the Hard Rock Hotel, offering 400 slot machines, 40 table games, a high-rolling VIP room and two separate bars.

But in a public hearing held last month, objections were raised with regards to height of the building, as well as social concerns regarding disruption to the residential neighbourhood.

The Dominican environment ministry has now tasked Hard Rock with presenting further specifics on the new building’s design and local impact in before another public in the coming months.

The iconic Hard Rock brand is operated in the Dominican Republic by AIC Hotel Group. The company’s signature resort, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, features a 45,000sq.ft casino with 450 slots and 40 table games.

In addition to the resort’s hotel, which has nine tiers of accommodation options, the Punta Cana property also features numerous restaurants, a golf course and spa amenities.