North Devon Council Reinforces Stance Against Casinos

North Devon Council has taken a pro-active step to reinforce its opposition to casinos within its jurisdiction.

North Devon Council has adopted a “No-Casino Resolution” under Section 166 of the Gambling Act 2005.

The No-Casino Resolution is a formal declaration that effectively bars any future casino applications in North Devon, regardless of potential changes in legislation.

The resolution is grounded in the Gambling Act 2005, which provides local authorities with the power to make decisions regarding gambling establishments in their areas. By invoking Section 166, North Devon Council has exercised its right to preemptively block casino developments.

It’s important to note that while the resolution specifically targets casinos, it does not affect other forms of regulated gambling or existing premises. This targeted approach allows the council to address concerns about large-scale gambling operations without impacting other sectors of the local economy.

A key driver behind the resolution was the overwhelming public support for such a measure. The council conducted a comprehensive public consultation earlier in the year, which revealed that 82% of respondents favoured the No-Casino Resolution.

One of the primary motivations cited by both the public and council members was the potential for gambling addiction. The resolution reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from the risks associated with casino gambling.

Respondents to the public consultation expressed worries about the broader impact of casinos on families and local communities. These concerns ranged from financial strain on households to potential increases in crime rates.

While casinos are often touted as potential economic drivers, the council and many residents felt that the potential negative impacts outweighed any perceived benefits. This decision prioritizes long-term community well-being over short-term economic gains.

North Devon Council has been clear about its rationale for implementing the No-Casino Resolution, emphasizing its commitment to the welfare of local residents.

Councillor Louisa York, chair of the licensing and community safety committee, emphasized that the resolution puts the well-being of residents first. This approach aligns with the council’s broader goals for creating a safer and healthier North Devon.

The council has linked the No-Casino Resolution to its efforts to combat deprivation in the region. With 11% of the population classified as income-deprived and several neighbourhoods ranking among the most deprived in the country, the council views the prevention of casinos as a step towards protecting vulnerable communities.