Views are being sought on proposed changes to how gambling is controlled in County Durham.
Durham County Council has begun consultation as part of a review of its gambling policy, which sets out how the authority assesses licence applications for gaming and betting facilities.
Joanne Waller, the council’s head of environment, health and consumer protection, said: “The gambling statement plays an important part in safeguarding our people and communities and ensuring gambling doesn’t have a negative impact on our county.
“This review will also make sure the statement continues to support members of the gambling trade and users of gaming and betting facilities.”
The statement includes three objectives:
• Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime or disorder, or being used to support crime.
• Ensuring gambling is conducted in a fair and open way.
• Protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.
As part of the review, the council is consulting on proposals in three areas:
• Local risk assessments.
• Guidance relating to enforcement action.
• Government amendments to stakes and prizes for gaming machines.
Full details of what is being proposed can be found at www.durham.gov.uk/consultation.
Consultation on the proposals runs until Monday September 26.
Anyone interested in having their say can comment by emailing: [email protected] or writing to: Licensing Services, Annand House, John Street North, Meadowfield, County Durham, DH7 8RS.
Mrs Waller added: “We’d encourage as many people as possible to get in touch and give their views on the proposed changes.”