London borough councillors in Brent are taking action to address the issue of gambling harms in their community. Known as the ‘Las Vegas of the UK’, North London’s Brent Council is set to present a case at the House of Commons aimed at reducing the number of betting venues in the area. This move comes as senior members of the council, including Deputy Leader Milli Patel and Chair of the Planning Committee Matt Kelcher, are responding to residents’ concerns about the proliferation of gambling establishments in the borough.
The representatives from Brent will be presenting their case to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Gambling Harms, chaired by Sir Iain Duncan-Smith, a prominent anti-gambling campaigner. The council’s push for reforms includes granting more power to local authorities to reject gambling-related applications that threaten the community’s welfare and safety, as well as a ban on gambling advertisements, promotions, and sponsorships.
One of the key demands from Brent Council is to restrict gambling venues to occupying only 3% of central commercial zones within the borough. Currently, bingo halls, adult entertainment centers, and sportsbooks are divided into separate categories, but the council is advocating for them to be grouped together under one umbrella category. In the district of Harlesden, which is under scrutiny, there are four sportsbook venues and two adult gaming centers within a 600-meter radius.
Deputy Leader Milli Patel emphasized the need for a shift in power to local government and called for a reform of the outdated Gambling Act. She highlighted Labour’s recent proposal to impose a statutory levy on gambling operators’ profits as a positive step towards addressing harmful gambling practices. Patel sees this as a significant move from a government that is serious about tackling the issues surrounding gambling addiction.
Overall, Brent Council is taking proactive steps to address the issue of gambling harms in their community by presenting a comprehensive case for reform at the House of Commons. With a focus on empowering local authorities and reducing the presence of gambling venues, the council is committed to creating a safer and healthier environment for its residents.