Councils given greater power to block betting shops

The Prime Minister has announced the end to “Aim to Permit” rules which prevented local councils from blocking the proliferation of betting shops on high streets.

The Gambling Act currently encourages local councils to allow gambling premises by default. According to guidance from the Gambling Commission, the Act “places a legal duty … to aim to permit gambling, in so far as it is considered to be reasonably consistent with the pursuit of the licensing objectives. The effect of this duty is that … authorities must approach their functions in a way that seeks to regulate gambling by using their powers … rather than by starting out to prevent it altogether.”

Under plans previously announced by Keir Starmer, and brought forward by Prime Minister Andy Burnham this week, the “Aim to Permit” rule is due to be removed, giving councils the ability to block new betting shops. The new rules will also mean that Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs), which allow for 24-hour access to gambling through slot and fruit machines, will require planning permission. The proposals are due to come into effect at the start of next year.

Concerns have been raised about the rise in gambling premises, and clusters of such shops in deprived areas. In the London Borough of Brent, for example, there are more than 80 gambling shops, including Harlesden, where there are 10 betting shops within a 10-minute walk.

The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, said: “For many people, the high streets they grew up with have been hollowed out and become unrecognisable over decades of decline. The rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for … We’re putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street. Local councils will be given the powers they need to rein in unwanted shops and bring town centres back to life.”