Great Britain’s Gambling Commission has lifted the suspension on VGC Leeds, the company that operates Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds, England, after noting a series of “significant” improvements at the land-based venue.
Earlier in November, the regulator suspended the company’s operating licence amid anti-money laundering (AML) failures. These included issues with the casino’s AML policies, procedures and controls, all of which are required by licence.
Concerns regarding decision-making processes and responses to identified AML and counter-terrorist financing risks were also flagged. At the time, the commission said these “serious” issues warranted a licence suspension while it carried out a broader review.
Changes to casino leadership
However, issuing an update on the case, the regulator confirmed the suspension has been lifted. This, the commission said, followed significant action taken by the operator.
These steps included widespread changes to the casino’s leadership, AML and compliance supervisors. VGC Leeds has also implemented new AML and safer gambling policies and procedures, improved staff training on AML and social responsibility. In addition, the venue committed to undergoing an independent audit within six weeks
This was enough for the commission to lift the licence suspension. However, its review of the operator will continue, with monitoring of its actives to remain ongoing. The commission said this will ensure “full and sustained compliance” with licensing requirements.
Based in Leeds city centre, the casino offers slot machines, table games and electronic roulette games. It also houses bars and lounges for watching sports events and hosting live entertainment.
The suspension was the second regulatory ruling against VGC Leeds in recent years. During October 2021, the company was ordered to pay a £450,000 regulatory settlement after the regulator flagged social responsibility and AML failures at the casino.
Commission taking no prisoners in clampdown
VGC Leeds was one of several companies to have face regulatory action in Britain in recent weeks.
Deadheat Racing had its licences suspended while the commission carried out a review of the operator. This was in response to suspected social responsibility and AML failures and covered the operator’s remote and non-remote betting licences.
Meanwhile, Videoslots was fined £650,000 for breaching AML and social responsibility rules. NetBet was also recently ordered to pay £650,000, again over AML and social responsibility failings.
In addition, the commission suspended Spribe OÜ’s software licence in October for failing to comply with hosting requirements. The commission said this was due to “serious” non-compliance. The supplier said it was applying for the relevant hosting licence and hoped to be running again within a few weeks.
VGC Leeds has its licence suspended over AML issues related to Victoria Gate Casino.