Consultation on gambling launched
West Lothian residents are being asked to share their views on how gambling is regulated locally.
A consultation has been launched in preparation for a revised gambling policy for the area, which West Lothian Licensing Board is legally required to review every three years.
The consultation period started on 5 April 2024 and ends on 5 June 2024. Following consultation, the Board will prepare and publish a revised gambling policy for the three years from 31 January 2025.
You can access further information and the online consultation questionnaire at https://www.westlothian.gov.uk/article/69113/Licensing-Board-Gambling-Policy-Review-2024
Convener of West Lothian Licensing Board, Councillor Tony Boyle, said: "We would like to hear the views of local residents and those with an interest in how gambling is regulated in West Lothian to help us update the policy for 2025-2028."
"West Lothian Licensing Board's gambling policy aims to ensure that any gambling taking place locally is not associated with crime or disorder, is conducted in a fair and open way, and is conducted in a manner which protects children or vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited."
"The consultation has three parts and has been designed for a wide range of people, bodies and organisations. Responses are welcomed from everyone with an interest, whether they wish to answer just some or all of the questions."
The Licensing Board is responsible for issuing licences and permits for the following kinds of gambling in West Lothian:
• Bingo
• betting shops
• tracks e.g. dog tracks
• adult gaming centres (premises with gaming machines for over 18s only)
• family entertainment centres (premises with gaming machines open to families)
• club gaming permits (permits gaming machines in member's clubs or miner's welfare institutes)
• Gaming machines in alcohol licensed premises
• travelling fairs
• certain types of lotteries
The Licensing Board does not have the power to regulate gambling operators and remote gambling, so responses on these areas cannot be considered as part of the consultation.
