Why are we consulting?

Under the Gambling Act 2005 (‘the act’), Shropshire Council is the licensing authority and is responsible for licensing and overseeing local gambling establishments. Part of this responsibility is the duty to prepare and publish a statement of the principles (a policy) that we propose to apply in exercising its functions under the act. 

Our current Gambling Act policy came into effect on the 1 April 2016 and will cease to have effect on 30 January 2019. We must be in a position to formally adopt a revised policy with effect from 31 January 2019. In order to satisfy the specific legal requirements set down in the Gambling Act 2005, we need to carry out this consultation process from 12 March 2018 to 3 June 2018.

What does the revised policy seek to achieve?

We've taken the opportunity to revise the format and content of the policy to reflect the latest guidance issued to licensing authorities by the Gambling Commission, to provide practical clarity to existing and potential licence holders and to assist our officers to correctly apply the legal provisions of the Gambling Act 2005.

The revision has led to minor amendments that update guidance references, reduce administrative burden on applicants and holders of Small Society Lottery registrations, clarifies that adults with care and support needs form part of the legislative definition of vulnerable person and confirms the current council delegations.

The local area profile has been refreshed and is incorporated into the draft Gambling Act 2005 Policy Statement 2019 – 2022 (appendix B of the draft policy). The profile maps local areas of concern, including actual and future emerging evidence-based risks that may impact on the licensing of gambling premises and activities. Operators are encouraged to use the profile to help inform them of specific risks prior to submitting licence applications.

Following the formal consultation process, an analysis of the responses received will be undertaken, and the results collated for the Strategic Licensing Committee (SLC) to consider. A revised policy document, with relevant tracked changes, will be made available to the SLC in time to ensure the revised policy is in force by 31 January 2019.

We welcome and encourage all interested parties to provide feedback in relation to the content and format of the whole policy.

Documents

• 2018 Gambling Act 2005 policy statement 2019 to 2022.pdf

If, having read the proposed policy, you have any comments or representations, or if you'd like more information, please contact the Licensing Team at:

• Email: licensing@shropshire.gov.uk
• Telephone: 0345 678 9026
• Post: Trading Standards & Licensing Service, Shropshire Council, Shirehall, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury SY2 6ND