Victoria Gate Casino (VGC) in Leeds has closed after the UK Gambling Commission suspended its licence for “significant failings”.
The suspension, which happened immediately from the announcement on Friday (31 October), comes pending a review into whether the casino is suitable to operate.
It comes hot on the heels of the temporary suspension of crash games pioneer Spribe just the day before for lacking a required hosting licence.
This potentially signals the UK gambling regulator has become more comfortable with using licence suspensions as one of its major tools in improving compliance.
The Commission said in a statement: “The review and consequent suspension follow concerns that activities may have been carried out contrary to the Act, not in accordance with conditions of their licence and that the Licensee may be unsuitable to carry on the licensed activities.
“During a recent Compliance Assessment, VGC Leeds Limited are reasonably believed to have failed to maintain and implement effective anti-money laundering policies, procedures, and controls, as required under the conditions of their licence.”
Victoria Gate Casino fined £450k in 2021
The action also comes following a £450,000 fine against the business in 2021, for an array of social responsibility and anti-money laundering failures.
In addition, the regulator said “serious concerns” were identified regarding the adequacy of decision-making processes and VGC’s response to identified anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing risks.
These failings, the UKGC added, were considered significant and represent a serious threat to its licensing objectives – in particular keeping crime out of gambling.
The regulator continued: “We have made it clear to the operator that during the suspension, we expect it to focus on treating consumers fairly and keeping them fully informed of any developments which impact them.”
According to the BBC, a notice has been posted on the casino door confirming the casino closure, but adding that it hopes to welcome customers back again soon.
The casino is located in the Leeds city centre and holds 22 live betting tables as well as 175 slot and roulette games.
