What began as a local planning dispute in Ashford, Surrey, has grown into a national flashpoint in the ongoing debate over gambling reform in the UK. Despite widespread opposition from residents and local leaders, a proposed gambling centre in the area has received approval on appeal, fueling calls for urgent changes to how gambling premises are regulated across the country.
In response, three Surrey councils have joined more than 40 local authorities nationwide in signing an open letter to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. In the letter, Runnymede, Spelthorne, and Surrey Heath councils demand sweeping reforms to gambling laws. That includes stronger powers for councils to reject licence applications, a nationwide ban on gambling advertisements, and increased funding for research into gambling addiction.
About the Project
The controversial Ashford venue will occupy the ground floor of a former bank and is being developed by Astro Property (MK) Ltd. Despite over 100 objection letters and direct opposition from Spelthorne’s MP Lincoln Jopp, the project was approved after a successful appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.
Although the site will not initially be allowed to operate 24/7, Astro Property must still secure a gambling licence from Spelthorne Borough Council before opening. Critics worry that the approval sets a precedent for similar developments in other communities, especially when planning appeals overruled local voices.
Strong Nationwide Backing
First of all, personal stakes count in this scenario. A Surrey resident who lost £500,000 to gambling and survived a suicide attempt has backed calls for stricter regulation. She began gambling during a period of isolation while caring for a relative, and the addiction quickly escalated. Now in recovery, she described the experience as devastating and criticised councils’ limited power to block gambling venues, noting that operators can later push for 24-hour licenses if no early issues arise.
The campaign has received the endorsement of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling Reform, which advocates for local empowerment, stronger safeguards, and modernised legislation. Councils supporting the letter argue that the existing regulatory system is outdated and no longer reflects the realities of modern gambling behaviour, particularly in the digital era.
They believe new laws must allow communities to protect public health and prevent the unchecked expansion of gambling premises in high streets already burdened by economic hardship.
As it stands, neither the Department for Culture, Media and Sport nor Astro Property has released an official statement regarding the Ashford decision or the proposed reforms.
