Approximately 750 licensed betting offices are set to reopen alongside several other non-essential retail premises after a period of closure that began on 26 December. These shops, according to the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), employ around 4,000 individuals and contribute £80m in tax and £6m in business rates. However, gaming machines at these locations will not be available due to ongoing restrictions. Additionally, the volume of televisions on the premises will be limited, and all customers will be required to provide their details for the government’s test and trace programme.
This reopening comes two weeks after betting shops resumed operations in England and Wales. BGC chief executive Michael Dugher expressed his satisfaction and referred to this as a step towards normalcy and a positive development for employment opportunities in Scotland’s high streets. Dugher also highlighted the importance of betting shops as a source of funding for horseracing, particularly as the summer sports season approaches. Scottish punters can once again enjoy safe betting experiences in physical locations.
Although betting shops can now reopen, casinos in Scotland are expected to wait until at least June to welcome back customers. The government has determined that these venues may only resume operations when the country’s virus situation reaches “level two”. The Betting and Gaming Council criticized the decision to prioritize the reopening of pubs and restaurants before casinos, considering it “absurd”. A report by hygiene expert Dr Lisa Acklerley stated that there was no logical or scientific reason for this distinction.
