Barking and Dagenham Council to tighten gambling shop rules
New policies aim to prevent harm and improve public health in response to resident concerns.
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The central claim is attributed to residents and the council, with specific figures and dates provided.
Higher is stronger
The article clearly separates resident concerns from the industry's response and outlines the council's proposed policy changes.
Higher is stronger
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Barking and Dagenham Council is preparing to introduce tougher policies for gambling premises licenses in response to widespread resident concerns about the density of betting shops across the borough. A recent consultation revealed a significant level of unease among residents, with some stating that gambling establishments are too prevalent, particularly in areas identified as having high deprivation and crime rates.
Resident Concerns and Policy Changes
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Residents have voiced worries that gambling shops are disproportionately located in Barking, one of London's poorest boroughs. One individual noted that it is possible to encounter a gambling shop every 100 metres in Barking. The council's draft licensing policy highlights Barking town centre as an area with high poverty and the borough's highest crime rate, while Heathway in Dagenham is described as one of the most impoverished areas. These observations have informed the proposed policy updates, which aim to shift the focus from a purely licensing-based approach to one that prioritises preventing harm and improving public health.
The council's updated policy will require businesses applying for new gambling licenses to demonstrate how they will mitigate local risks associated with gambling premises, especially in areas experiencing higher levels of deprivation. This move is intended to strike a balance between supporting the local economy and entertainment offerings and safeguarding residents from potential gambling-related harm.
Industry Perspective
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The Betting and Gaming Council, representing the gambling industry, has countered these concerns by highlighting the economic contributions of betting shops. According to the industry body, these establishments support 42,000 jobs nationwide, contribute £800 million annually in taxes to the Treasury, and generate an additional £60 million in business rates for local councils. A statement on behalf of the industry asserted that the vast majority of individuals who gamble do so safely and responsibly.
Current Situation and Next Steps
Currently, Barking and Dagenham hosts 42 betting shops, adult gaming centres, and bingo halls. Eleven of these are situated around Barking town centre, with a further five located around Heathway. The council acknowledges that it can only refuse a premises license if doing so would undermine specific licensing objectives: preventing crime and disorder, ensuring fair and open gambling, and protecting children and vulnerable individuals. Councillors are scheduled to review the new policy at a licensing and regulatory committee meeting on 3 September.
Questions this report answers
+What is Barking and Dagenham Council doing about gambling shops?
The council is preparing to implement tougher policies for gambling premises licenses. This update aims to focus more on preventing harm and improving public health, particularly in areas experiencing high deprivation, following significant resident concerns.
+How many gambling premises are there in Barking and Dagenham?
There are currently 42 betting shops, adult gaming centres, and bingo halls in the borough. Eleven of these are clustered around Barking town centre, and five are located around Heathway in Dagenham.
+When will the new gambling policy be considered?
The proposed changes to the council's gambling policy are set to be considered by councillors at a licensing and regulatory committee meeting next Thursday, 3 September.
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