Gambling Act Changes Bring Bigger Bets to Sunderland Casino

_{Additional games for visitors to Grosvenor Casino Sunderland. (Image: Grosvenor Casino/Facebook)}

Grosvenor Casino Sunderland has added 26 new slot machines to its gaming floor, nearly doubling its slot capacity. The move follows recent changes to UK gambling regulations, allowing land-based casinos to increase the number of terminals they can operate.

The casino, located in Sunderland’s Sunniside leisure quarter, now houses 46 slot machines and introduces more than 350 additional games for visitors. The investment is part of Grosvenor’s broader strategy to elevate its customer experience amid growing demand for more varied gaming options.

New Slots, Same Focus on Experience

Mark Hunter, General Manager at Grosvenor Casino Sunderland, called the expansion a major upgrade for the venue.

“We’re thrilled to have enhanced our gaming offer here in Sunderland. This investment demonstrates our continued commitment to provide cutting-edge gaming options for our players.” 

Hunter said the upgrades were designed with the local gaming community in mind and emphasised the atmosphere that jackpots help create.

“I’m so proud of the elevated player experience we can offer, there’s nothing better than seeing someone walk away with one of the £20,000 jackpots! It always creates such a brilliant atmosphere.” 

Review Opened Opportunities for Land Based Casinos 

The update comes in response to reforms introduced under the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Gambling Act Review, concluded in April 2023 and implemented through 2024 and 2025. The review permitted UK land-based casinos to operate up to 80 Category B1/B2 slot machines, depending on venue size and licensing conditions .

Previously, many UK casinos were limited to 20 terminals, a rule that industry leaders argued restricted innovation and growth. By removing the cap and allowing more flexible layouts, the updated regulations aim to level the playing field with international competitors and rejuvenate the land-based casino sector.

For Sunderland, this means more local entertainment options without sacrificing responsible gambling standards. The casino continues to offer table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker, as well as casual dining.

More Than a Numbers Game

Beyond slot machine quantity, the upgrade includes access to a diverse library of new games, including high-stakes jackpot slots and player-favorite branded titles. This aligns with broader trends showing renewed interest in in-person casino visits post-COVID, driven by immersive social experiences.

The Grosvenor Casino brand, owned by Rank Group, has been rolling out similar updates across several UK sites as part of a national reinvestment campaign in response to the Gambling Act changes .

The Sunderland location plays a key role in the North East’s leisure scene, drawing regulars and new visitors alike. The added capacity not only expands choice but is expected to help maintain the venue’s competitiveness in a region with rising hospitality options.