***This is an edit of the content of the show limited to the discussion on gambling, and betting shops***

Introduction

We are seeing an increasing prevalence of betting shops in Dedworth. Councillor Da Costa raises a number of concerns on behalf of local residents that need addressing by the Council, including a change of Government policy.

 

Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBT)

BBC Radio Berkshire raised the issue of gambling, and Reading Borough Council’s attempts to protect local residents by seeking a reduction in the maximum stake on certain “addictive” betting terminals (FOBT) from £100 to £2.

 

The move from 93 borough councils was highlighted in an article in the Guardian called “Stop concentration of betting shops on high streets, say local authorities”– click here to read it. 

 

Gambling on the BBC – Radio Berkshire’s news story on Friday 28 November 2014

Presenter, Andrew Peach interviewed a local man whose life had spun out of control because of the prevalence of betting shops, and these FOBTs, resulting in massive debts, separation from his wife and children, lonliness in his addiction.

 

Betting Shops in Dedworth – Wisdom’s 6 key concerns that need addressing by RBWM

Andrew also asked me about some of my concerns as a Windsor Councillor about the proliferation of betting shops in Dedworth.

Here are my points in full, though BBC Radio Berkshire only touched on points 1 and 6

1. I am concerned about the loss of a valuable retail unit that would contribute to a positive community life
   1. We need a greater variety of ideally unique independent local retailers
2. There are already 5 betting shops in the area, and we are saturated
   1. We need a healthy balance between different types of shops
3. I am concerned about the switch from a day time to a night time economy, and the undesirable effects that has on local community life, and clientele drawn into the area, and late night disturbance and noise in a largely residential area
4. Whilst the current applicant may be a responsible organisation, we have no control on a less scrupulous operator taking over next
5. Should we be exposing our young adults, and vulnerable people to a negative industry, that will lock some into addiction, and give them the wrong message about life & community?
   1. Gambling can be more addictive than crack cocaine
   2. It can destroy relationships and family life
   3. It can lead to financial ruin
   4. It can leave the addict feeling isolated, and cut off from society
   5. Placing such risks next to our homes is irresponsible of councils, and the government.
6. Government permissive planning rules NPPF amount to a developers charter, allowing profiteers to build with no regard to health and well being of local community life, and virtually no ability of local authorities to shape communities sensitively. They have to change.

 

What did I say about another bookies in Dedworth at the Blockbuster planning hearing?

Click here to read what I said in the article, “Blockbuster Betting Shop Comments”

 

Vision for Windsor

You can find out more about points 1 & 2 from the vision document produced by the Windsor Neighbourhood Plan. Read our article, “How to help shape Windsors future“. It will empower you, and help you to take positive action to improve Windsor. Click on the link.

 

Lets work together to develop a better Windsor, better for all regardless of age, income or circumstance

 

Bonus content – Jeremy Kyle talks about Gambling Addition

 

Accountably yours,

Wisdom

Wisdom Da Costa

Chair, WWRA

Councillor, Clewer North in Windsor