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Harringay, Haringey - So Good they Spelt it Twice!

Legal help needed to oppose betting shop application

Have received an early xmas present from Haringey Council. My objection to Betfred's application to open a second shop on the Tottenham High Road has been accepted as valid and can be considered by the Licensing committee. This meeting is likely to happen in February.

Yet, even when being allowed to take my concerns forward there was a reminder that existing betting shops - erm, too many? too much waste left outside? too many problems? - is not good enough grounds to stop another. And this follows the Council's licensing lead previously telling all councillors that evidenced ASB is not good enough grounds for refusing the application.

I can argue and string words together, but need some legal brains. Anybody out there with battle-hardened knowledge of the Gambling Act 2005 who can help?

Still a long way from the winning post. But at least I am on the starting line.

Thanks,
Martin

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Martin Ball on December 24, 2013 at 15:11

Thanks. I watching the Narnia film for inspiration. Be jolly too.

Permalink Reply by Clive Carter on December 24, 2013 at 17:02

Martin, the Gambling Act 2005 was the biggest Christmas present ever received by the gambling industry. The law is on their side and councils are all but powerless to stop the spread. This will remain the case unless and until the Act undergoes deep meaningful reform. Unfortunately that isn't going to happen soon.

I assume that the current Application does not represent a Planning change-of-use (which would otherwise be a good starting point for objectors).

In the short term, the least unrealistic approach is somehow to dissuade the Applicant to withdraw or discontinue their application. There is precedent for this in Green Lanes.

Meanwhile, you and others, IMO *should* register your concerns at every available point (knowing that they will merely be recorded). You might ask Councillors what they are doing to get the Act fixed.

It may be possible—though distasteful—to seek advise from nearby existing operators, who might not welcome the presence of a new competitor. Such firms may be happy to give accurate, informed technical advice. Again, there is precedent for this tactic. They're well-funded and well-versed in the legal argument.

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