Agenda item

Report of the Group Director of Services

The Group Director of Services submitted a report (previously circulated) for Members approval of the draft Statement of Licensing Principles for the Gambling Act 2005 to be released for consultation.

The Gambling Act 2005 requires licensing authorities to publish a Statement of Principles that they propose to apply in exercising their functions under the Act every three years.  Darlington’s current Statement of Licensing Principles was published in January 2019 and, as such, a new policy is due to be published in January 2022 (every three years).

It was reported that Key stakeholders had been made aware that this policy was to be renewed and were invited to make comment before formal public consultation and to date no comments had been received.

It was also reported that following formal consultation, this Statement of Licensing Principles will be returned to the Licensing Act 2003 Committee for approval before a final decision is made by full Council.

General discussion ensued on gambling related harm which creates challenges for Local Authorities; expressed their concern at the rise in on-line gambling and the impact of the pandemic and the potential risks that may cause; and were keen to receive the data from the census that took place on 21 March 2020 which will be relevant to the local area profile.   The Licensing Manager advised Members that Public Health will be taking the lead on harm related to gambling and this was high on their agenda.

RESOLVED – That Members approve the Licensing Principles for the Gambling Act policy document for public consultation.