Bedford borough councillors have approved plans for a new adult gaming centre after hearing concerns about gambling harm, crime, deprivation and the potential impact on vulnerable residents.
A Gambling Act licensing sub-committee on Thursday (May 28) granted a premises licence to Future Leisure Limited for 19 Silver Street, subject to conditions aimed at protecting children and vulnerable people.
However, councillors were reminded that under the Gambling Act 2005, they must “aim to permit” gambling where applications are consistent with the licensing objectives and that concerns should be addressed through conditions where possible.
Speaking on behalf of the applicant, licensing consultant Andrew Woods said the business had extensive experience operating adult gaming centres and had strengthened its proposals in response to consultation.
