A survey conducted by The Chibagin Research Institute has found that 49% of residents in Chiba are opposed to introducing an IR in Makuhari city, Chiba, with just 22% in agreement.
The survey shows that there remain strong feelings against IRs, particularly in Mihama ward where Makuhari is located with 56% opposed.
The survey of 1,000 residents was conducted online. Just 24% were in agreement and 44% opposed when it came to developing an IR in any part of Japan, with a higher ratio were against an IR being built in Makuhari new city.
The primary reasons for opposing an IR were public security concerns at 64%, an increase in problem gambling at 51% and worsening environmental issues such as noise and transportation congestion at 37%.
Positives raised by 37% of respondents were a potential increase in tourism and an increase in tax revenue, followed by the creation of new employment at 36% and a revitalized local economy through an economic ripple effect at 33%.
