One year-long of renovations. It is the huge construction site that the Casino des Pins of Sables-d'Olonne launched into. It is currently undergoing substantial transformations. Aim: to be renovated for the upcoming Vendée Globe (famous sailing race around the world).

Validated project by the City Hall, approved building permit, on September, 14th the excavator started to take the terraces to pieces. On the plan: 400-square meter extension at the back of the casino to build a restaurant, renovation of the façade and creation of a nightclub which can accommodate up to 1,000 people.

Obviously, it will have the obsolete slot machines replaced with 25 new and most sophisticated machines. In the same way, the gaming space will be able, from now on, to welcome up to 175 terminals. The Casino needs to get refurbished before the opening of the village of the next Vendée Globe, in 2016. This is what the casino's chief executive, Pascal Bardouil, wants, like he saids on Ouest France. The operation cost is about €3,5m.

But there is no reason to panic, dear players, the casino is still open and keeps welcoming you during the whole renovation process. Yes, the casino does not intend to let you down.

Note that the construction works will be interrupted during summer. This is the period of the year when the casino is more crowded.