The UK government has confirmed that hospitality and entertainment establishments can reopen from 4th July as part of the third and final phase of plans to ease restrictions imposed to combat the virus. Land-based casino operators, represented by the British Betting and Gaming Council, have confirmed that they will be ready to reopen by that date.

Strict hygiene and social distancing measures will be followed at the casino to ensure the safety of staff and patrons. Customers will be required to use hand sanitizer before entering the establishment and when changing the gaming table. Entrance will be limited to one person at a time with two meters of social distancing in line outside. Upon request, visitors will be able to receive a face mask.

To ensure social distancing, floor plans will be changed. Slot machines will be disinfected after each session, and ATMs at least once an hour. Plexiglas screens will be used where necessary.

The British Betting and Gaming Council has acknowledged that social distancing measures are not enough to fully restore operations in the high-end casino sector. These establishments will not be able to fully reopen until restrictions on the entry of foreign tourists are lifted.

British Betting and Gambling Council Chief Executive Officer Michael Dager said: “It is encouraging that casinos have been in line for reopening since the 4th of July. Now the message to the government is that they are willing and ready to reopen safely. We know that the gambling sector will face very difficult times in the future and the threat that Covid poses to many businesses will not disappear quickly. That is why we urge the government to continue to be flexible in its approach to the hospitality and leisure industry.”

Land-based casinos in the UK were closed on 23 March due to the lockdown due to the spread of the Covid-19 virus. 695