gambling addiction
Local councils are calling for national gambling law reform and increased protection for residents against gambling addiction.
Greenwich Council formally demanded action on national gambling laws in March 2026, calling for urgent reform to empower local communities and restrict betting shops. A motion passed by the council advocated for a statutory levy on gambling operators to fund harm prevention initiatives, with funds to be distributed to independent public bodies and local health authorities.
In December 2025, Kingston Council debated a motion supporting national gambling reform and increased protection for residents. The motion highlighted concerns about gambling addiction and the number of betting shops and adult gaming centres, noting that councils are limited by what it called outdated legislation, particularly the 'Aim to Permit' rule within the Gambling Act 2005. It was referred to the Licensing Committee.
Gambling addiction refers to compulsive gambling behaviour that causes harm to individuals and those around them. Councils are seeking legislative changes to address the negative consequences associated with gambling activities, such as the proliferation of betting shops.
Key facts
- Greenwich Council passed a motion demanding action on national gambling laws in March 2026. Source
- The Greenwich motion advocated for a statutory levy on gambling operators to fund harm prevention. Source
- Kingston Council debated a motion supporting national gambling reform in December 2025. Source
- The Kingston motion highlighted concerns about the 'Aim to Permit' rule in the Gambling Act 2005. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.