Hillingdon Council is set to consider regulations for adult gaming centres, following concerns about their disproportionate location in deprived areas and the limited powers local councils have to prevent new ones from opening.
The motion, proposed by Councillor Peter Curling, Leader of Hayes Independent Group, at the council meeting on 11 September 2025, highlights the need for stricter controls on the proliferation of these establishments. The motion, available in the Public Reports Pack, notes that research indicates adult gaming centres and betting shops are often concentrated in the most economically disadvantaged areas. Councillor Curling also raised concerns that places such as Hayes Town already have a high concentration, with another gaming centre due to open in the old Barclays Bank building. The motion also notes that changing shopping habits could lead to local high streets being dominated by gaming centres and betting shops if their growth is not controlled.
The motion calls for the Cabinet to consider joining a coalition of over 40 councils advocating for changes to gambling regulations, as local councils have very little power to stop new gaming centres opening. The coalition is calling for 'urgent gambling reform' to prevent betting shops and gaming centres from 'taking over' high streets.
The full council meeting also covered a range of other issues, including financial matters, Heathrow expansion, and asylum seeker support.