Forum topic: Does the Council have any say over betting shop proliferation?

Bad news for those of us who would like to see an end to the proliferation of betting shops in our town centres. Newham Council's earlier rejection of an application for a new branch of Paddy Power in Upton Park (in addition to the 82 betting shops already operating in the borough) was yesterday overruled by Thames Magistrates Court (see this newspaper report ). The judge ruled that the Council had no powers in this case, which was within the remit of the Gambling Commission. However, the Gambling Commission is claiming that local councils have extensive powers in this area.
It's rather difficult to square the Gambling Commission's statement with the judge's decision. It does not bode well for Enfield Council's chances of limiting betting shops in Palmers Green and elsewhere if Newham is apparently powerless in the face of what looks like a much worse situation.

If the premises was a pub or cafe I don't think the betting shop proprietor has to apply for a "change of use" licence or something like that. Seems like something that could easily be rectified with a bit of legislation.