Digne-les-Bains finally gets its casino

On 30 December 2025, the Ministry of the Interior officially granted authorisation to operate games of chance at the future casino in Digne-les-Bains. This decision opens a new chapter in the economic and tourist development of the spa town.

The State authorises a strategic project for the region

In Digne-les-Bains, the granting of the gaming licence by the State is the culmination of a long-standing commitment by the municipality, in close collaboration with the Golden Palace Group. The project, now legally secure, can fully enter its operational phase, with a confirmed schedule and a clear vision for its future.

The legal framework for the project is based on a public service delegation agreement signed for a period of 18 years. This contract entrusts the Golden Palace Group with the construction and operation of the future casino, under the control of the local authority.

Massimo Menegalli, President of the Golden Palace Group: “Obtaining this official authorisation is the culmination of work carried out hand in hand with the City and local stakeholders, in a climate of trust and dialogue. Our ambition is simple: to create a responsible, accessible and welcoming venue that fits naturally into the daily lives of residents, supports local employment and contributes fully to the reputation of Digne-les-Bains.”

This choice is part of a public-private partnership approach adopted by the City of Digne-les-Bains. It allows us to draw on recognised expertise in casino operation while ensuring that the facility remains at the service of the public interest.

The relatively long duration of the concession reflects the desire to establish the casino for the long term. It gives the operator the visibility needed to invest in high-quality facilities, while ensuring lasting economic benefits for the town.

Facilities designed as a living space

Far from the sometimes rigid image of a traditional casino, the future establishment in Digne-les-Bains is intended to be a truly living space, open and accessible. Located in the green setting of the thermal baths, it will blend into the landscape with architecture that is described as timeless and attentive to the ecological and economic challenges of the region.

In addition to the games room, the project includes a restaurant, a bar, relaxation areas and an outdoor stage. The aim is clear: to offer a venue that can welcome gamers, local residents, spa visitors, tourists and families alike, in a multi-generational atmosphere. The facility is intended to be a hub for cultural and social activities, designed to enrich the existing offering without competing with it.

An economic and social lever for the city

The economic impact of the future casino is one of the main arguments in favour of the project. Ultimately, the facility is expected to generate around 30 direct jobs, covering a variety of professions, from reception and catering to security and game management.

Beyond these direct jobs, indirect benefits are also expected, including an increase in tourist numbers, a boost to local trade and longer stays for visitors. In a spa town like Digne-les-Bains, every new structuring activity helps to enhance the overall attractiveness of the area.

Patricia Granet-Brunello, Mayor of Digne-les-Bains: “This authorisation marks a key milestone for a project we have been working on for several years. The future casino will be a driving force for Digne-les-Bains, alongside our thermal baths, our spa and our booming tourist offering.”

A project at the heart of the spa strategy

The casino’s location is no coincidence. By setting up shop in the immediate vicinity of the thermal baths, the future establishment is fully in line with the city’s tourism and thermal development strategy.

It is set to become an essential partner of the Thermal Valley, which brings together the spa, wellness and leisure activities developed by the Régie des Thermes and local economic players. This complementary approach aims to offer visitors a comprehensive experience combining health, relaxation, culture and entertainment.

The casino is now scheduled to open at the end of 2026, subject to the smooth completion of the final phases of construction and regulatory checks.

A new chapter for Digne-les-Bains

With this official authorisation, Digne-les-Bains confirms its desire to look to the future. A historic spa town, it is now seeking to diversify its attractions without compromising its identity. With one year to go before its announced opening, the project is now firmly established in the Digne landscape.