Hackney Council is facing renewed pressure from residents over significant delays in implementing Gambling Impact Assessments (GIAs), with calls for the local authority to lobby the government to expedite the necessary legislation. The issue was central to a deputation presented at the Council meeting on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.
Residents expressed deep concern over the proliferation of gambling premises in Hackney, highlighting the recognised harms they can inflict on vulnerable individuals. This situation is exacerbated by the current 'Aim to Permit' legislation within the Gambling Act 2005, which residents argue hinders effective local control.
Gambling Impact Assessments (GIAs), once implemented under Section 87 of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026, are set to reverse the 'Aim to Permit' provisions. This will empower licensing authorities with the crucial ability to manage the concentration of gambling establishments, particularly in areas where further licenses could contribute to community harm.
Until GIAs are fully enacted, the deputation urged the Council to update Hackney's Gambling Statement. This update is intended to reflect the current realities and the tangible community harms associated with adult gambling centres, which have become a growing concern.
The deputation also called on Hackney Council to join the BetsOffBlackstock campaign in urging the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to accelerate the introduction of this vital legislation. They further welcomed opportunities for Hackney to pilot GIAs.
Ministers have indicated that the Gambling Commission is collaborating with the DCMS to develop guidance for licensing authorities, with a consultation expected in due course. However, despite these commitments, no consultation has yet been launched, contributing to the ongoing frustration.
The Council received the deputation and resolved to note its receipt. This process, where residents present concerns directly to the council, is a formal mechanism for public engagement. The resolution to 'note receipt' signifies that the council has formally acknowledged the deputation's submission and its contents.
Further details regarding the council meeting can be found in the Public reports pack.
