The Licensing Sub-Committee of Hillingdon Council met on Monday 27 July 2026 to consider an application to vary a licensed premises gaming machine permit.

Hollywood Bowl and Puttstars Gaming Machine Permit Variation

The committee considered an application from The Original Bowling Company Limited to vary the licensed premises gaming machine permit for Hollywood Bowl and Puttstars, located at Unit 220, The Chimes, Upper Mall, Uxbridge UB8 1QJ. The application sought to increase the number of Category D gaming machines from 35 to 43, while keeping the five Category C machines unchanged.

The licensing officer presented the report, noting that no complaints had been received regarding the premises' operation or its gaming machines. The applicant's legal representative, Ewan McGregor, explained that the figure of 43 machines referred to playing positions rather than individual physical machines, citing examples like Tipping Point machines which have multiple positions within a single unit. He highlighted that the Category C machines, which are restricted to those aged 18 and over, are located near the bar and are equipped with facial recognition age verification technology. The Category D machines, with no age restrictions, are situated within the amusement areas and are supervised by staff.

During the discussion, councillors sought clarification on staff training for age verification, with confirmation that training logs are maintained and accessible. Questions were also raised about whether the addition of machines would compromise floor space or fire exits, to which the applicant responded negatively, stating that the positioning of machines is carefully considered for customer comfort and safety. The effectiveness of the age verification system was also discussed, with the applicant explaining that staff behind the bar verify ages when prompted by the machines.

The committee was informed that the premises licence includes a condition requiring staff to undergo premises age verification training, which must be documented and refreshed every 12 months. The applicant also assured the committee that with any new machines, there is ample space for monitoring, and staff actively engage with customers to ensure they are not spending excessively.

Following deliberation, the Licensing Sub-Committee adjourned to make a decision on the application.