Work should begin soon on remodeling the former Ramada Hilltop Inn as part of a resort and casino, attorney Kent Hudson, representing developers, said Wednesday.

“(Work will start) probably within the next 30 days,” Hudson said.

Natchez-based Emerald Star Casino and Resorts, Inc. — owned by Charles Cato and two Wisconsin groups, the Lake of the Torches Federal Development Corporation and Big River Enterprises, have formed a partnership to develop the area, according to a statement released Wednesday.

“Subject to local planning approvals, the first phase of the project will be the immediate renovation of the hotel,” the statement reads.

The plans go before the planning commission March 15, Hudson said.

The renovation, scheduled to begin later this month, “will include considerable demolition and massive renovation of the facility, including bar, restaurant and meeting space,” the statement reads.

The site will include the hotel, the Briars Bed and Breakfast and a casino just beneath the hotel.

Installation of the casino should start within the next two months if all goes as planned, Hudson said.

Big River Enterprises owns and operates 20 hotels throughout the Midwest, according to the statement. Big River’s William Bayba will serve as the project manager of the Natchez development.

Developer Charles Cato has been talking about locating a casino in Natchez for years, and the Emerald Star Casino would be the third gaming boat along Natchez’ bluffs.

The Lane Company recently won the city’s approval to locate a riverside development, including a casino, on city land just north of the Isle of Capri boat.

Some have suggested the local market would not be able to support two casinos, much less three, but Lane representatives have said their development would bring in outside dollars.

“We can’t comment on the Lane Company plans, other than to say that if they move forward, it will just make Natchez a more attractive destination point, as has been the case in other towns such as Vicksburg, Greenville and the Gulf Coast,” Hudson said.