SMF and Brent Council Gambling Licensing Research: Resident and Business Survey

Survey introduction

New research by the Social Market Foundation and Brent Council is examining gambling licensing and the clustering of gambling premises. The project focuses on the social and economic harms associated with these premises, including their impact on communities and the health of the high street. One key area of interest is how findings might support calls for reform of the ‘aim to permit’ rule, giving local authorities greater powers to refuse licence applications.

A survey of residents and local businesses will help quantify the harm caused by the concentration of gambling venues. It will explore how people in Brent perceive their impact on the high street – whether they make it more or less attractive, and whether they are seen as beneficial or harmful to local trade. The survey will also ask if respondents know people affected by gambling, and their views on Adult Gaming Centres in particular. The results will directly inform the SMF and Brent Council’s forthcoming report, scheduled to be published in September 2025.

Survey closing dates: Sunday 7th September 11:59pm

Contact Information : Jake Shepherd, SMF Senior Researcher, jake@smf.co.uk

Follow-up and outcomes

Results will be formally published in October 2025.