Request for greater gambling licensing powers for Local Authorities

Around 40 local authorities, led by Cllr Muhammed Butt (Brent Council), are pushing for changes to  the Gambling Act 2005, as they believe the current legislation fails to meet the current market challenges, with a reference being drawn to an increase in gambling premises on high streets which can attract community opposition and raise issues around health, financial stress, and public safety.

The above group is not calling for a complete ban on gambling, but a proposal to empower local councils to have more proactive control over license applications and planning decisions for proposed gambling premises.

The proposal includes the following proposed changes:

Reforming the ‘aim to permit’ policy: the aim is to provide licensing authorities with the ability to reject applications for gambling premises that could negatively affect community welfare and safety.

Categorisation of premises: A proposal to align bingo halls and adult gaming centres with bookmakers under the National Planning Policy Framework.

Local planning considerations: The proposals suggest that councils should be able to factor in local issues like household debt levels when evaluating planning applications.

Statutory levy for harm prevention: A levy on operators to be used to fund research, education, and treatment related to gambling harm. It is recommended that an independent public body oversee this process to oversee the funding.

Advertising overhaul: A call to clamp down on gambling advertising and promotion aims to protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and young people, from constant exposure.

Restricting liberalisation of adult gaming centres: This proposal is to reassess aspects such as spin speed and staking levels on machines that are particularly harmful.

We will keep you updated as matters progress