Welsh casinos get green light to reopen from 29 August
Welsh first minister Mark Drakeford has announced changes to COVD-19 restrictions in the country, which will see the nation’s casinos reopen from August 29.
Wales currently has four casinos employing around 400 people. The casinos have been closed since COVID-19 lockdowns began in mid-March.
The four properties have introduced a range of health and safety measures in preparation for reopening including Perspex screens, track and trace systems and social distancing rules.
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has welcomed the news, describing the decision to reopen casinos as “the right move” by the first minister.
The industry body has been very vocal in support of casino reopenings in England, Scotland and Wales since some other business restrictions were eased in June.
Commenting on the decision, BGC CEO Michael Dugher said: “I warmly welcome this announcement by Mark Drakeford, which is the right move and a tremendous boost for the hundreds of men and women who work in Welsh casinos, as well as their customers.”
Earlier today, Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that bingo halls, amusement arcades, casinos and pool halls will reopen in Scotland from Monday.
English casinos were permitted to reopen on the 15 August; two weeks later than was initially planned by the UK Government. The BGC described this as a “welcome relief” for the industry and its employees.
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