Key Moments:
- 280 individuals, including 46 MPs and 216 local councillors, signed a letter urging changes to gambling venue regulations.
- The government pledged in 2025 to introduce “cumulative impact assessments” for licensing decisions.
- Industry reports show that over 2,300 betting shops have closed since 2019, a 29% nationwide reduction.
Escalating Pressure for Regulatory Reform
Debates over gambling oversight in the UK have intensified. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces calls to revise the licensing of new betting shops and all-hours slot machine venues. Central to the discussion is the “aim to permit” rule, introduced in 2005 and reinforced by the 2007 Gambling Act. This rule requires licensing authorities to approve applications for gambling premises.
Reform advocates argue that the rule has weakened local councils, limiting their ability to block excessive gambling venues, even where communities oppose them. Labour MP Dawn Butler warns that the growing number of betting and 24/7 slot venues is reducing the diversity of high streets and increasing risks for vulnerable populations.
Broad Coalition Demands Change
A letter urging regulatory amendments has been sent to the prime minister. It is signed by 280 people, including 46 MPs, six House of Lords members, 216 councillors, and various gambling reform advocates. The letter does not call for a ban on casual betting. Instead, it seeks to restore councils’ authority to evaluate the social impact of gambling businesses.
Supporters note that over one million people in the UK experience gambling-related harm, affecting up to 20% of the population indirectly. Personal finances, public services, and mental health have all been impacted. Economically deprived areas, in particular, have high densities of betting venues, increasing residents’ exposure to risk.
Proposed Changes to Licensing Powers
Looking ahead to 2025, the government plans to allow councils to conduct “cumulative impact assessments.” These would consider the concentration of betting shops and slot venues before approving new licenses. However, campaigners argue that without repealing the “aim to permit” rule, councils would still struggle to refuse applications.
Dawn Butler has introduced a “10-minute rule bill” to spark parliamentary debate on revising UK gambling regulations.
Expansion of 24/7 Slot Venues and Community Impact
Concerns about 24-hour slot machine venues have grown since 2025, with rapid expansion on high streets. Many new venues appear in lower-income neighborhoods, exploiting regulatory gaps.
Urban specialists and local government officials say this trend harms traditional retail areas, replacing them with high-intensity gambling zones. Continuous operating hours also raise the risk of harm, especially for youth and economically vulnerable residents.
Industry Perspective: Jobs and Economic Impact
The Betting & Gaming Council, representing regulated gambling interests, opposes stricter rules. It highlights that the sector provides 46,000 jobs, nearly £1 billion in annual tax, and £60 million in local business rates. The council also notes a contraction of more than 2,300 betting shops since 2019, a 29% reduction nationwide.
Industry leaders defend the “aim to permit” rule, arguing that it does not drive unchecked expansion. They warn that further restrictions could threaten employment, tax revenue, and a sector already facing retail challenges.
Government Response and Outlook
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen local powers over gambling venues, especially in high-risk areas. This effort aligns with broader goals to revitalize high streets and give communities greater control.
Repealing or modifying the “aim to permit” rule could mark a turning point in UK gambling regulation. The Starmer government must balance public welfare and urban renewal against potential risks to a key economic sector.
Sector Data Overview
| Category | Figure |
|---|---|
| Jobs Supported by Betting Shops | 46,000 |
| Annual Direct Taxation | £1 billion |
| Annual Business Rates (Local Authorities) | £60 million |
| Betting Shop Closures Since 2019 | 2,300+ |
| Reduction in Betting Shops Nationwide | 29% |
| Individuals Experiencing Gambling Harm | Over 1 million |
| Population Indirectly Affected | Up to 20% |
- Author
Daniel Williams
