Public consultation on proposed gaming and TAB policy ends soon

Christchurch City Council is asking for community feedback on its proposed Class 4 Gaming Venue and TAB policy, before consultation closes on 5 February.

The Council has been consulting on its draft Class 4 Gaming Venue and TAB policy for nine weeks (since 24 November last year). During this time 53 written submissions have been received.

Under the central government’s Gambling Act 2003 (which came into force in mid September last year), the Council is required to introduce a policy on class 4 venues and a policy on TAB venues by March 18th 2004. It is required to consult with the public before finalising the policy.

The draft policy relates to key issues surrounding gambling in our city, such as:

- How many gambling machines should the city have?
- In which parts of the city should new businesses with machines be allowed to operate?
- How many machines should any new business be allowed to have, and should there be any more machines at all?
- What about the numbers and locations of TAB venues?

Christchurch City currently has a higher number of gaming machines per head of population than most New Zealand cities (about 1 per 110 adults). The proposed policy, if adopted, will allow a further increase (1 per 100 adults).

Councillor Sue Wells, who chairs the Council’s Regulatory and Consents Committee, says that the policy is very much a draft.

“We really need feedback to make sure we reflect the views of the community", says Councillor Wells

A public meeting to discuss the proposed new gambling venue policy will be held this Thursday 29 January, 7.00-8.30pm, at the Council’s Beckenham Service Centre.

The public can also obtain a copy of the draft policy, by:

- Phoning Christchurch City Council on 941 8999,
- Going to www.ccc.govt.nz/HaveYourSay, where there is an on-line feedback response form, or
- Collecting a copy from the Council’s Civic Offices or local Service Centre.

ENDS

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