'We don't want casinos in Enfield' (From Enfield Independent)

'We don't want casinos in Enfield' - Enfield Borough Council blocks casino licence for next three years

12:10pm Friday 1st February 2013 in News By Hermione Wright

Casinos are still not welcome in Enfield after politicians ruled to block any from opening in the borough for the next three years.

Although a gambling licence has never been granted in Enfield, the subject is debated every three years under the the Gambling Act 2005.

And councillors renewed their commitment not to permit casinos to open in the borough during last Wednesday's council meeting.

Councillor Chris Bond, cabinet member for environment, said Enfield - which has 74 betting shops in the borough - is no place for casinos as they encourage gambling addictions.

He said: "We don't want casinos in Enfield, it’s as simple as that. They encourage people to gamble and result in people acquiring an addiction to gambling, which can have a devastating impact on the family.

"The presence of casinos is directly linked to problem gambling and all the issues that causes - job losses, bankruptcy and poor mental health.

"We don't want to invite those problems into our communities which is why we've decided to retain the ban on casinos in Enfield."

The council does not have powers to stop betting shops opening in clusters but is working to warn people about money lending and the "exorbitant" interest fees charged. 

Cllr Bond said people are at a "greater risk" of turning to illegal money lenders charging extortionate rates for repayment when they run into debt caused by gambling.