LGA calls for more powers to reject betting shop applications

The Local Government Association (LGA) has called for councils to be given extra powers to reject betting shop applications.

The campaign comes after new research has shown a link between clusters of high street betting shops and problem gambling. The study confirmed that people living in areas with a higher number of betting shops are more at risk of
becoming addicted to gambling compared to those living in areas with less betting shops.

The group has advised that councils should be allowed to reject applications for new betting shop if they’re already clusters of gambling stores in the area.

Furthermore, the LGA wants the current £100 maximum stake on fixed odd betting terminals (FOBTs) to be reduced.

The LGA’s licensing spokesman Councillor Tony Page said: “Councils up and down the country are frustrated by the lack of powers they have to curb the number of betting shops on our high streets.

“The LGA and councils have long argued that betting shop clustering has a detrimental impact on local high streets, but this ground-breaking research now clearly shows the risks it has for individuals as well.”