Gambling licensing application - Sydenham High Street

[elw222]

Not strictly East Dulwich but - I was concerned to see that there's a licensing application to open 'bingo' at 53 Sydenham Road, by the company Merkur Slots.

There are already 3 betting shops on that stretch of the High Street and a bingo hall behind the station. We also already have problems with begging and anti social behaviour on Sydenham Road and I'm really worried about what opening a new gambling premises now, in 2024, does. 

Any tips on objecting to these types of applications much appreciated - if you would also like to object please email licensing@lewisham.gov.uk

[Moovart]

Do get your MP and relevant councillors involved. 

The only winners from more high street gambling outlets are the owning companies and those receiving the rent.  People that use these gambling shops are often those who don't have money to lose.

The presence of so many gambling shops in a High St is a sign of a struggling high street and that is an issue for the local council and the MP.

It should be much harder to gamble than it is now. Gambling advertising on TV and phones is particularly pernicious and I wish the laws on this had never been liberalised.  Gambling is a really harmful addiction that, unlike drug and alcohol addiction, can go unseen until addicts have lost everything. Opening another gambling outlet is a big mistake.

I'm sure you'll find alot of people in Sydenham that would help you oppose this. Just keep spreading the message.  Good luck.

Lewisham gives has guidance on making a representation against licence applications for alcohol entertainment licenses on its website but much of the information is transferable.  

https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/business/licences-and-street-trading/licences-issued-by-the-licensing-team/alcohol-and-entertainment-licences/licensing---guidance-on-making-a-representation

[Dogkennelhillbilly]

A lot of these gambling shops are open 24 hours a day - extremely depressing. Gambling firms don't make money from the people who might bet on the Grand National or whatever. They make a massive slice of their profit from a tiny number of compulsive gamblers. It's very depressing