URL: https://moderngov.kingston.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=5494

Decision Maker: Licensing Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: After debate and amendments, the following motion was put to the vote and CARRIED.   “This Council notes:   ·         Gambling addiction is a growing national issue with a social cost of over £1 billion a year.   ·         Harm from gambling affects families, public services and communities, and is often concentrated in more vulnerable areas.   ·         Kingston has a notable presence of betting shops and adult gaming centres, with councils limited by outdated legislation – particularly the “Aim to Permit” rule in the Gambling Act 2005.   ·         Online gambling and widespread advertising have normalised gambling, including among young people.   ·         A cross-council coalition, led initially by Brent, is calling for urgent reform and has already influenced Government decisions on machine regulation.   ·         The public overwhelmingly prefer high streets not dominated by gambling premises.   ·         The number of premises licensed for gambling activity in the Borough is declining but that online gambling that is not controlled by the Council is increasing.   This Council resolves to:   1. Support national reform   ·         Join the coalition of councils calling for urgent gambling reform.   ·         Endorse the Social Market Foundation High Streets at Stake recommendations, including:   o   Stronger local licensing powers and cumulative impact assessments.   o   Directors of Public Health involved in gambling licensing.   o   Closing loopholes in gambling premises classifications.   o   Raising the cap on licence fees to reflect enforcement costs.   o   Clearer responsibilities between local authorities and the Gambling Commission.   o   Removing the “Aim to Permit” rule to restore local democratic control.   2. Raise Kingston’s voice nationally   ·         Write to the Secretaries of State for Culture, Media & Sport and for Health & Social Care urging legislative reform.   3. Support harm reduction   ·         Join and promote campaigns such as the Coalition to End Gambling Ads (CEGA).   ·         Work with NHS, Public Health and voluntary sector partners to improve signposting to gambling support and education.”

Date of Decision: February 10, 2026