Devon council doubles down on 'no casino' stance

A Devon council has said a firm no to casinos. Although no applications for casinos can be granted in North Devon under existing laws, North Devon Council has gone a step further in its opposition.

It has now adopted a "No-Casino Resolution" under Section 166 of the Gambling Act 2005. It means no applications to open a new casino in North Devon will be considered or granted even if there are changes to legislation in the future.

The council says the resolution, agreed at a meeting of councillors last month, reflects its commitment to protecting people from the potential harms associated with gambling. It follows a public consultation earlier this year alongside a review of its "Gambling Act Statement of Principles".

It found 82% of respondents supported the No-Casino Resolution, citing concerns about gambling addiction, harm to individuals and families, and the potential for casinos to negatively impact the area.

A No-Casino Resolution does not affect other forms of regulated gambling or existing premises.

Councillor Louisa York, licensing and community safety committee chair, said: “The No-Casino Resolution ensures we are putting the well-being of our residents first. By adopting this policy, we’re protecting our community from the risks associated with casinos while supporting our goals for a safer, healthier, and more prosperous North Devon."

The council says the resolution is also part of efforts to address deprivation in North Devon, where 11% of the population is classed as income-deprived, and seven neighbourhoods rank among the 20% most deprived in the country.

The council's Gambling Act Statement of Principles has also been updated to introduce new guidance to licensed premises on social responsibility, clearer information on gambling-related harm, and updates to local demographic data.

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