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The UK’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has kicked off a public consultation aimed at revising the rules surrounding gaming machines and bingo venue licensing in Great Britain.
Announced on Wednesday (Oct 15), this consultation invites feedback on potential updates to stakes and prizes for Category D gaming machines, as well as modifications to the licensing framework for bingo establishments. Stakeholders and the public can share their insights until 11:59 pm on January 9, 2026.
The DCMS aims to ensure “the regulatory framework that underpins [the land-based gambling industry] is fit for purpose” while exploring ways to support “sustainable growth” in the family entertainment center sector.
“The government is clear that growth cannot be pursued at any cost. It is vitally important to uphold the licensing objectives set out in the Gambling Act 2005, which includes protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling,” the department stated.
Plans for Category D Gaming Machines
The consultation recognizes the challenges faced by various sectors within the gambling industry, particularly Family Entertainment Centres (FECs), which have been experiencing a decline in both their numbers and revenues.
It emphasizes the need to assess the impact of these commercial pressures and find ways to build sustainable growth in the family arcade sector. Consequently, the government is exploring potential changes to the stakes and prizes for Category D gaming machines.
Several key proposals have emerged from this consultation. First, adjustments to the stake and prize limits for existing Category D machines are being considered. Additionally, a new subcategory for non-money prize “slot-style” machines is planned, showing their rising popularity and unique design.
Another proposal involves creating a pusher/penny fall category that includes both money and non-money prize machines, acknowledging the significance of these machines to seaside arcades.
Furthermore, the consultation aims to formalize age restrictions for “cash-out” style Category D machines, making it illegal for anyone under 18 to use them. This move follows a voluntary ban implemented by Bacta, the trade association for arcades, in 2021 to protect younger players.
Plans for Bingo licensing reforms
The consultation also examines the different ways bingo is offered, with the government aiming to ensure that every land-based gambling venue has a license type suitable for its specific operations. A key goal is to clearly differentiate between bingo venues and adult gaming centers.
Several proposals have been outlined in the consultation documents. One significant suggestion is the establishment of mandatory “bingo areas,” where a certain percentage of the venue’s floor space must be dedicated to bingo facilities. The government proposes three options for this: 30%, 40%, or 50% of the total area.
Additionally, there are plans to restrict the type of machines allowed within licensed bingo areas. Specifically, the consultation suggests banning cabinet and infill style machines from these spaces. To ensure that real bingo activities take place, a minimum number of bingo positions will also be required.
The consultation acknowledges that if these proposals are implemented, some operators might prefer to maintain a machine-led business model. In such cases, converting bingo premises licenses to adult gaming center (AGC) licenses would be an option. Operators would eed to review their existing licenses and possibly add a “Gaming machine general: AGC operating license” if it isn’t already included.
Stakeholders and interested parties can take a look at the full consultation documents and online portal here. You can also respond via the portal or through [email protected].
Source: Popall
