The Proposal
It is proposed to retain the current Gambling and TAB Venue Policy for a further three years.
Under the current policy the number of venues and machines has declined. The policy does not allow the establishment of new venues in residential areas or adjacent to any school, early childhood facility, place of worship or other community facility irrespective of zone but does acknowledge its status as a legitimate activity enjoyed by many within the community.
Alternative Options
1 - Limit, or cap, the number of gaming venues and/or machines. This option was considered during the submission hearings in 2003. Research now indicates it is venue accessibility that is the greatest determinant of problem gambling, not the numbers per se. Dunedin already prohibits the establishment of new venues in residential areas where the greatest harm is thought to occur.
If this option was selected the Council would need to decide on the number of venues and gambling machines the district would allow. Because the number of venues and EGM numbers is declining it would be recommended that the number is set at today's level.
2 - Sinking lid. This option would see a prohibition on all new sites. As the number of venues and/or machines fall there would be no more approvals for new venues or increases in the number of machines within the City. However, if a venue closes, the 'existing use' of the venue as a gambling site only expires after six months. If during the six month period another operator takes over the site no further consent is required.
Your submission
