UK Government Launches Consultation on Seaside Slots and Bingo Hall Licensing

The Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) has opened a major public consultation on proposed regulatory reforms for Category D gaming machines and licensing frameworks for bingo premises. 

Key proposals include:

Raising maximum prize limits for Category D machines (e.g., crane-grab machines could increase from £50 to £75) to reflect rising costs and support venue viability. 
Instituting an age-18 minimum for “cash-out” slot-style Category D machines, aligning regulation with voluntary industry standards. 
Establishing clearer licensing criteria for bingo venues, including defining a mandatory “bingo area” (potentially 30-50% of floor space) to ensure bingo remains the primary offering. 

Implications for the coin-op and amusement sector:

Operators of seaside arcades, family entertainment centres and venues with crane-grabs, coin-pushers or low-stake machines should prepare for potential changes in age-restrictions, prize-structures and licensing requirements. The reform agenda signals a move toward greater regulatory clarity and modernisation, but also raises questions about how venues will adapt to evolving standards.

Consultation Period:

The DCMS is inviting responses from industry stakeholders, venue operators, local authorities and the public. Submissions can be made online until 11:59 pm on 9 January 2026. 

Return to the previous page

23 October 2025

See all news...