Brent Labour is stepping up our campaign to stop the spread of gambling venues — and we’re doing it with help from one of the UK’s top research groups.
We’ve joined forces with the Social Market Foundation (SMF) to build the case for national change and protect our high streets.
What’s the problem?
Gambling venues like Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) are opening more and more in parts of Brent. These places have slot machines and often target areas where people are already struggling financially.
In Brent, we’ve seen clusters of betting shops and gaming centres in areas like Harlesden, Wembley, Stonebridge, Neasden, Willesden, Kenton, and Queen’s Park — areas where many families are already facing tough times.
Why is it so hard to stop them?
Right now, there’s a national rule called the “Aim to Permit”. This rule tells councils that they should approve most applications for new gambling venues — even if people living nearby don’t want them.
What are we doing about it?
Brent Labour councillors have been leading the fight to stop more gambling venues from opening in our communities.
We are calling for the “Aim to Permit” rule to be scrapped, so councils can finally say no when gambling shops are not right for the area.
Thanks to our campaign, council leaders representing over 12 million people across the UK are now backing our call to change the law.
With the help of the Social Market Foundation, we’ll build stronger evidence, sharpen our arguments, and make the case for change to the next government.
What are our councillors saying?
Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said:
“For too long, the house has always won. Big gambling firms have made millions while leaving working-class communities to pick up the pieces. It’s time to put the power back in the hands of local people.”
Cllr Mili Patel, Deputy Leader of the Council, said:
“This campaign started on Harlesden High Street, but the issue is across the borough. With help from SMF, we will keep pushing to fix a system that is no longer fit for purpose.”
Looking ahead
This new partnership will support our work to protect residents, give councils more power, and make public health the top priority for our high streets.
Gambling harm isn’t something we have to accept — with the right evidence, leadership and changes in the law, we can fight back and protect our communities.
