In the dim and distant 90s in a certain South American country with brand new gaming legislation, one of the first casinos to operate was run and staffed to the highest UK standards. This was when UK gaming personnel were a highly prized commodity, and the said casino was very popular except in one particular – food was not offered at the gaming tables. Management thought that greasy chips resulting from clients eating as they played was not a local custom they wished to adopt. However, as is the way of the world, a successful business must keep its customers happy and move with the times. Needless to say, before too long serving food as well as drinks at the gaming tables was on the menu.

Yesterday Gala opened its new casino location in Sunderland’s River Quarter with 21 gaming tables and, taking advantage of the new regulations allowing increased numbers, 40 slot machines and electronic touchbet roulette e-lounge. A vodka bar featuring a state of the art suspended screen and a steak and burger grill restaurant are accompanied by a full waitress service throughout the casino ‘so that you can enjoy your food and drink while you play.’ The times they are a-changing.

Something else on the move is the number of casinos around Great Britain. So many applications have been filed for new licences under the old regulations that the government has imposed the earliest possible cut-off date – next April. The Gambling Act 2005 provides for an additional 17 casino licences, including one prototype mega operation with up to 1,500 slot machines, but there is speculation that the number of casinos could double before the new regulations come into force.

Applications for the current financial year number 39, nearly double those for the previous year. Additionally, 21 applications have been granted licences but are not yet operational and 12 applications are under consideration by the Gambling Commission. Potential new operators are amongst the applications, including Malaysian-owned Thistle Hotels and Luminar nightclubs. Over the last year London Clubs International has been granted five new casino licences, and Stanley Leisure another five, plus two pending and one dormant. The UK casino scene is on the move in more ways than one. (E-11.25.05)

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