Government implements changes to rules on B3 gaming machines

The government has today implemented a number of changes to the rules on B3 gaming machines, including an increase in the maximum permitted stake to £2.

Brought in by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the amendments will also see changes to the number of B3 gaming machines permitted in adult gaming centres (AGC) and bingo premises.

AGC and bingo premises are now entitled to make available a number of Category B gaming machines not exceeding 20% of the total number of gaming machines which are available for use on the premises.

The Gambling Commission said licensed AGC and bingo premises in existence before 13 July 2011 will enjoy so-called ‘grandfather rights’, entitling them to make available four (AGCs) or eight (bingo) category B gaming machines, or 20% of the total number of gaming machines, whichever is the greater.

AGC and bingo premises licences granted on or after 13 July 2011 but before 1 April 2014 are entitled to a maximum of four or eight category B gaming machines or 20% of the total number of gaming machines, whichever is the greater; from 1 April 2014 these premises will be entitled to 20% of the total number of gaming machines only.

The Gambling Commission warned that operators who choose to make material changes to their existing licensed premises in order take advantage of the 20% requirement may need to apply to their local authority for a licence variation.

“Licensed operators who are in any doubt about whether alterations to their premises will require a variation to their premises licence should speak to their licensing authority before proceeding,” it added.

The DCMS and the Gambling Commission have produce a question and answer document on the changes. It can be downloaded here.