Operator News
UK – Casinos forced to close in Liverpool as infections rise
By Phil - 13 October 2020
Casinos, betting shops and adult gaming centres in Liverpool were the only ones that have been forced to close again the UK, following the introduction of a three-tier system to try and slow the spread of the second wave of COVID-19.
The North West city has three casinos, two owned by Genting and one by Grosvenor, a host of adult gaming centres including those operating under the Admiral, Merkur Cashino and Leisuretime brands, along with 350 betting shops.
The Betting and Gaming Council Chief Executive Michael Dugher described the move as a ‘hugely disappointing announcement that affects hundreds of betting shops and six casinos, employing 2,300 people, in the Liverpool City region are to close from Wednesday. This is despite there being no evidence that they contribute to the spread of COVID19.’
He said: “Across Merseyside, 2,300 people are employed in betting shops and casinos. The decision to close them will likely have a huge impact on employment and the survival of these businesses. Our members’ venues abide by strict Covid-19 guidelines and have been approved by Public Health England. There’s no evidence that betting shops or casinos have been the source of any outbreak of the coronavirus or have contributed to a rise in the number of cases.
“Betting shops were safely reopened in June and were classified as non-essential retail,” he added. “They are not hospitality businesses, yet they are unfairly singled out from other parts of non-essential retail. This will not only impact those businesses but also have a negative impact on the amount of tax they pay and the money that goes to support racing. For example, racecourses on Merseyside receive a large portion of their funding from media rights to broadcast racing in betting shops – this will cease the moment shops are closed.
“It is imperative the 350 betting shops and six casinos on Merseyside are kept open. I understand why the City Region is prioritising the economic support package but they can and should argue for these businesses to remain open. They are not looking for a handout. They simply wish to stay open safely and contribute to the local economy and the exchequer. We urge you to make the strongest representation to the government against this arbitrary decision.”
