Leeds' Victoria Gate Casino faces license suspension in compliance probe

Victoria Gate Casino has closed its doors after the UK Gambling Commission suspended its operating license over concerns about anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) compliance, raising operational and reputational questions for the Leeds-based venue.

The regulator said the suspension took effect immediately following a recent compliance assessment. The review found that the casino “failed to maintain and implement effective anti-money laundering policies, procedures, and controls, as required under the conditions of their licence.”

A notice posted at the casino confirmed the suspension, stating that the venue was “currently closed” but hoped "to open and welcome you back very soon.”

“Serious concerns were identified regarding the adequacy of decision-making processes and the licensee's response to identified anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing risks, raising questions about the overall effectiveness of its governance and risk management arrangements,” according to a public statement released by the Gambling Commission.

“These failings are considered significant and represent a serious threat to the licensing objectives, in particular keeping crime out of gambling,” the statement added.

The Gambling Commission has initiated a formal review of Victoria Gate Casino’s operations following the findings. The review will assess the extent of the failings and determine whether the license can be reinstated.

The enforcement action follows other recent regulatory steps across the UK gambling industry as the Commission continues to assess operator compliance with AML and CTF requirements.

Victoria Gate Casino acknowledged the suspension in its public notice and reiterated its intention to reopen once permitted. “We are sorry to confirm that our operating licence has been temporarily suspended by the commission and our venue is currently closed. We hope to open and welcome you back very soon,” the statement read.

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council told SBC News that the local authority had been informed by the UK Gambling Commission of Victoria Gate Casino’s immediate license suspension, which means the venue is no longer permitted to conduct gambling operations.