West Suffolk Gambling Act Policy Consultation 2021

Audience: General public, licensed premises, interested stakeholders, for example police

This consultation is now closed. It was open from 9 August 2021 to 20 September 2021.

Why are we consulting?

The West Suffolk Gambling Act Policy consultation will run from 9 August until 11.59pm on 20 September 2021. 

Under the Gambling Act 2005, West Suffolk Council is the licensing authority 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 our function under the act. 

Our current Gambling Act policy, which lasts for three years, for 31 January 2019 to 30 January 2022. We must formally adopt a revised policy for the period from 31 January 2022 to 30 January 2025. To satisfy the specific legal requirements, as set down in the Gambling Act 2005, we will consult publicly on the draft policy from 9 August 2021 to 20 September 2021.

What does the revised policy seek to achieve?

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

The revision has led to only minor amendments that update guidance references.

The 'local area profile' has been refreshed and is incorporated as Appendix A in the draft policy document. 

The profile maps local areas of concern, including 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. A revised policy document, with relevant tracked changes, will be taken to full Council for approval and adoption of the policy by 31 January 2022.

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

View the documents

All comments must be in writing and sent by email to: licensing@westsuffolk.gov.uk 
or in writing to:
Licensing Team
West Suffolk Council
West Suffolk House
Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP33 3YU