UKGC Extends National Lottery Licence Competition Timeline

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has extended the timeline for Phase Two of the Fourth National Lottery licence competition, following representations from applicants and experience from Phase One.

The amended timeline will see four weeks added to the Phase Two application stage and a further six weeks for evaluation. These changes will provide the opportunity for applicants to further refine their proposals and for the Commission to evaluate.

“To facilitate these changes, and ensure a smooth transition, we will extend the third National Lottery licence by six months. The Fourth National Lottery licence will begin in February 2024,” UKGC confirmed in a statement.

“We now intend to announce the preferred applicant in February 2022. All dates are indicative and may evolve in line with market feedback and the continued national, and international, impact of COVID-19, all of which we are keeping under constant review.

“Our job is to run the best competition we possibly can – one that is open and fair and results in the best outcome for players and good causes. We want to appoint a licensee that can build on the National Lottery’s legacy and find new opportunities for a sustainable and successful future.

“We remain encouraged by the number of applications received and we look forward to evaluating Phase Two proposals as part of a robust process.”