Questionnaires are available on the council's website

The move is part of government changes to the gambling laws.

Torbay's elected mayor has given his approval for the council's regeneration arm, the Torbay Development Agency, to submit a formal application.

Nick Bye said he would like to see Torbay "become the Monte Carlo of the West Country".

'Economic benefits'

"We consider a casino to have huge economic benefits for Torbay," he said.

"Early indications suggest that a casino could generate in the region of 200 to 350 jobs and bring in around �12m."

Questionnaires will be available on the council's website from Wednesday 22 March.

Under the new Gambling Act, three new types of casino will be allowed to operate.

One regional casino will be created, along with eight small casinos and eight large ones.

Torbay is applying to become a large casino.