Published on: November 3, 2025, 07:51h.
Updated on: November 3, 2025, 07:52h.
- Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds has been temporarily closed
- UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) mandated the casino’s closure following alleged breaches of regulations
The gaming operations at Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds were halted on Friday under the directive of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
A license suspension notice on the UKGC’s official website highlighted a series of allegations against the casino, located approximately 35 miles northeast of Manchester.
Following reports of potential violations of the Gambling Act, the UKGC conducted a review of the casino’s operations. The investigation revealed that Victoria Gate Casino lacked effective measures to combat money laundering.
Furthermore, the UKGC indicated that the management’s response to identified issues regarding anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing was insufficient, raising concerns about the overall governance and risk management strategies in place.
As a result, the casino’s operations were immediately suspended.
Casino’s Lack of Transparency Regarding Suspension
The UKGC operates independently under His Majesty’s Government, overseeing and regulating most forms of gambling in Great Britain, including the National Lottery.
Typically, the UKGC does not enforce immediate closures of casinos over alleged regulatory breaches; licensees are generally given the opportunity to argue their case or promptly rectify compliance issues.
However, officials stress that the situation concerning the Leeds casino stands out.
“These failings are deemed significant and pose a serious threat to licensing objectives, particularly the integrity of gambling operations and the exclusion of crime,” stated the UKGC’s suspension notice. “We have clearly communicated to the operator that, during this suspension, it must prioritize consumer welfare and keep them fully updated on any relevant developments.”
Currently, Victoria Gate Casino has not upheld this directive. A check on the casino’s website revealed everything appearing normal, with only a small notice at the top right stating, “The licensee’s license has been suspended by the Commission.”
Moreover, the casino’s social media accounts have not shared any news about its closure.
Nonetheless, a physical notice has been placed on the casino’s entrance.
“We regret to inform you that our operating license has been temporarily suspended by the Commission, and our venue is currently closed. We look forward to welcoming you back soon,” reads the notice.
About Victoria Gate Casino
Victoria Gate is operated by Global Gaming Ventures in collaboration with British property developer Hammerson. The casino debuted in January 2017 as a part of the Victoria Gate retail and hospitality complex.
Constructed at a cost of £30 million, the 50,000-square-foot casino previously featured around 175 slot machines, along with electronic roulette and blackjack game tables.
The UK Gambling Act of 2005 was established to modernize casino regulations, especially aimed at addressing problem gambling and ensuring that gambling establishments are not exploited for criminal activities.
In October 2021, Victoria Gate Casino faced a fine of £450,000 following a UKGC investigation that uncovered “failures in social responsibility and anti-money laundering practices.”