Decision details

The future operations of the former Harrogate District Local Authority run community lottery

Decision Maker: Executive Member for Corporate Services

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: Yes

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Purpose:

To agree on the future of the pre-existing community lottery that is established in the former Harrogate District and now run by North Yorkshire Council (NYC). The contract with the existing External Lottery Manager is due to expire May 2026.

Decision:

Cease the operation of the local authority operated The Local Lotto by the end of May 2026 and support any transition to a community partner.

Reasons for the decision:

The current contract with the External Lottery Manager (ELM) (Gatherwell Ltd) ends in May 2026. A full procurement exercise would be required to continue, but this is not recommended due to cost, complexity and diminishing returns to the council. It is felt that the community lottery would now thrive if it were transferred to a community provider.

Alternative options considered:

The alternative option is to cease The Local Lotto for the Harrogate district and not provide any alternative option. This has been rejected as North Yorkshire Council recognises the contribution the VCSE makes across the area and without regular income and support communities will not thrive or be sustainable.

Publication date: 16/12/2025

Date of decision: 09/12/2025

Effective from: 24/12/2025

Accompanying Documents: