The Licensing Policy Statement lasts for a maximum of three years and the current policy will end on 30 January 2022. This policy has been developed as part of the Gambling Act’s strategy to control betting, gambling and local lotteries. Local councils are responsible for giving licences, permits and other approvals.

Under the legislation, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, as the Licensing Authority is required to prepare and publish a statement of the principles that it proposes to apply when exercising its functions under the Gambling Act 2005 and must consult people about this. These aim to:

• Prevent gambling being a source of crime and disorder, being associated with crime and disorder, or being used to support crime
• Ensure that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way
• Protect children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling

The council is seeking views of residents about the draft Gambling Act Policy which is out for consultation and all comments must be received in writing by midnight on Sunday 29 August 2021. Please visit Gambling Licensing Policy Consultation | Your say Southend to find out more and comment on the consultation.