Great Britain’s Gambling Commission has lifted the suspension of VGC Leeds, the operator of Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds, England, after confirming the venue had made a number of “significant” improvements.
The regulator had suspended the company’s operating licence earlier in November due to failures related to anti-money laundering compliance. These shortcomings included weaknesses in the casino’s AML policies, procedures, and controls — all required under its licensing conditions. The commission also highlighted concerns about the casino’s decision-making processes and its responses to identified AML and counter-terrorist financing risks.
At the time of the suspension, the regulator described the issues as “serious,” stating that a temporary halt of the licence was necessary while a full review was conducted.
Changes to casino leadership
In an update on the case, the Gambling Commission confirmed that the suspension has now been lifted, following what it described as “significant” corrective action by the operator.
The improvements included major changes to the casino’s leadership team, as well as replacing AML and compliance supervisors. VGC Leeds also introduced new AML and safer gambling policies and procedures, enhanced staff training on AML and social responsibility, and committed to completing an independent audit within six weeks.
These measures were sufficient for the regulator to reinstate the company’s licence. However, the commission noted that its review is still ongoing, and it will continue to closely monitor the operator to ensure “full and sustained compliance” with its licensing obligations.
Located in Leeds city centre, Victoria Gate Casino offers slot machines, table games, and electronic roulette, along with bars and lounges used for sports viewing and live entertainment.
This marks the second regulatory action taken against VGC Leeds in recent years. In October 2021, the operator agreed to a £450,000 regulatory settlement after the commission identified failures in social responsibility and anti-money laundering practices at the venue.
Commission taking no prisoners in clampdown
VGC Leeds was one of several operators to face regulatory action in Great Britain in recent weeks.
Deadheat Racing also had its licences suspended as the Gambling Commission launched a review into the business. The suspension, issued due to suspected social responsibility and AML shortcomings, applied to both the operator’s remote and non-remote betting licences.
Elsewhere, Videoslots received a £650,000 fine for violating AML and social responsibility requirements. NetBet was similarly ordered to pay £650,000 for comparable failings.
Additionally, the commission suspended Spribe OÜ’s software licence in October after determining the supplier had not met required hosting standards. The regulator described the issues as “serious” non-compliance. Spribe said it is currently applying for the appropriate hosting licence and expects to resume operations within a few weeks.
