The Licensing Sub-Committee of Hillingdon Council is scheduled to consider an application to increase the number of gaming machines at a popular entertainment venue. The meeting will also cover standard procedural items.

Application to Vary a Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permit

The primary item on the agenda is an application to vary the Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permit for Hollywood Bowl & Puttstars, located at Unit 220, The Chimes (Upper Mall), Uxbridge UB8 1QJ. The application, submitted by The Original Bowling Company Ltd, seeks to increase the number of Category D gaming machines from 35 to 43. The number of Category C gaming machines would remain unchanged.

The report pack details that the current permit, in force since March 2024, allows for 5 Category C and 35 Category D machines. The proposed variation would increase the total number of Category D machines to 43. The report outlines the different categories of gaming machines, their maximum stakes and prizes, noting that only Category C and D machines are permitted under a Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permit, and that under-18s are prohibited from using Category C machines but may use Category D machines.

The report references Hillingdon's Statement of Gambling Policy 2025-2028, which mandates that applications for five or more gaming machines be delegated to a Licensing Sub-Committee. It also highlights guidance from the Gambling Commission, including the statutory aim to permit gambling where consistent with licensing objectives, and the importance of gambling remaining ancillary to the main purpose of the premises, particularly for those licensed to sell alcohol. The Gambling Commission's Code of Practice for Gaming Machines in Clubs and Premises with an Alcohol Licence is also referenced, detailing requirements for machine location, supervision, and procedures to prevent underage gambling.

Officers' observations indicate that no complaints have been received by the Licensing Authority regarding the operation of Hollywood Bowl and Puttstars or their gaming machines. The report also details the legal considerations for the Sub-Committee, including the three licensing objectives under the Gambling Act 2005: preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and protecting children and vulnerable persons from harm or exploitation. The Sub-Committee has the power to grant the application, refuse it, or grant it for a smaller number or different category of machines.

The report pack includes the application form, the existing permit, the premises licence issued under the Licensing Act 2003, a plan of the premises, and the Gambling Commission's Code of Practice. The Premises Licence for Hollywood Bowl & Puttstars, MAU/031364/AYG, was issued on 21 May 2025 and authorises various licensable activities including regulated entertainment, late-night refreshment, and the sale of alcohol. The Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permit, MAU 31377, was issued on 7 March 2024.