1 September 2006

• Transitional period begins
• Operators whose existing permissions expire before 1 September 2006 should renew them in the usual way
• Operators whose existing permissions expire after 1 September 2006 will have their permissions automatically extended until 31 August 2007 (the end of the transitional period). There is no need for application or fee.

1 January 2007

• Gambling Commission will start to accept applications for operating licences
  

30 April 2007

• Licensing authorities will start to accept advance applications for premises licences
  

31 July 2007 – KEY DATE

• This is the deadline for applications for existing operators (or new operators outstanding applications under the existing legislation) wishing to receive continuation rights
• Applications received after this date will still be processed but will not receive continuation rights
• This is also the closing date for new operators to apply for permissions under the existing legislation in order to start operating before 1 September 2007 and/or potentially qualify for continuation and grandfather rights
• After 31 July only Gambling Act 2005 permissions will be granted, which means new operators would not be able to commence operating until 1 September 2007

31 August 2007

• Transitional period ends

1 September 2007

• Gambling Act 2005 comes into effect along with the new licences and permits granted under that Act
• Those operators with continuation rights may continue to operate, subject to the mandatory and default conditions
• Those who do not have continuation rights and have yet to receive their permissions under the new legislation must cease operation
• Existing legislation is repealed
  

For further information please contact Simon Halberstam on 020 7814 1258 or at simonhalberstam@hotmail.co.uk