Gambling Policy and Licensing Policy

Overview

On 1 April 2023 local government in Cumbria changed.   

The current six borough, city and district councils, along with Cumbria County Council, were replaced by two new ‘unitary’ councils.  

In the area currently covered by Allerdale Borough Council, Carlisle City Council and Copeland Borough Council a new authority, Cumberland Council, was created.  

Part of the process is to harmonise our policies. We are therefore consulting on two of our licensing policies - our draft Gambling Policy and draft Licensing Act Policy

Gambling Policy

Under the Gambling Act 2005, each local authority is required to prepare and publish their statement of policy every three years. The sovereign Licensing Authorities had their own Gambling Licensing Policy which were due for review in January 2025.

In line with legislation a draft policy has been prepared to produce a Cumberland Council policy.

No substantive changes have been made to the contents of the sovereign documents in bringing them together to produce this policy and in principle is identical to the policies previously in place. 

However, prior to the adoption of any revised or amended policy there is a requirement to hold a consultation with key stakeholders and the public. 

Licensing Policy

Under the Licensing Act 2003, each local authority is required to prepare and publish their statement of policy every five years. The sovereign Licensing Authorities had their own Licensing Policy which were due for review in January 2026. In line with legislation a draft policy has been prepared to produce a Cumberland Council policy.

No substantive changes have been made to the contents of the sovereign documents in bringing them together to produce this policy and in principle is identical to the policies previously in place. 

Prior to the adoption of the policy there must be a period of consultation with a wide range of organisations, responsible authorities including the Police, Fire Service, Environmental Health, Director of Public Health and other statutory agencies, licence holders, residents and businesses as specified in the legislation.
 

Why your views matter

How to have your say

Please read the documents below before continuing with the consultation.

These are the draft Gambling Policy and draft Licensing Policy. You can provide feedback on one or both of these policies. 

When you are ready click on the link below to provide your comments.

You can also collect copies of the documents, and a response form, from either Allerdale House, Workington, The Civic Centre, Carlisle or The Market Hall, Whitehaven. You can also call 0300 373 3730 and request a copy.