Gambling Impact Assessments included in Government’s new “Neighbourhood Guarantee”

Gambling Impact Assessments (GIAs) have been formally included within the Government’s new Neighbourhood Guarantee, a package of measures designed to improve the quality of life in villages, towns and cities across England. The Guarantee sets out expectations for cleaner, safer and more community‑focused neighbourhoods, while giving councils clearer tools to respond to local concerns — including the growing issue of gambling premises clustering on high streets.

As part of the announcement, ministers confirmed that GIAs will support local authorities in assessing the cumulative impact of gambling venues and in shaping more balanced, resident‑led high streets.

GIAs introduced through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act

The inclusion of GIAs in the Neighbourhood Guarantee follows their introduction in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act, which received Royal Assent earlier this year. The Act gives licensing authorities a new statutory power to prepare Gambling Impact Assessments for their areas, enabling councils to:

• Evaluate the concentration and distribution of gambling premises
• Identify areas where further licences may heighten local risk
• Strengthen the evidence base for licensing decisions
• Better reflect community concerns about gambling‑related harm

These new powers represent a significant development for local authorities seeking to manage the social and economic impact of gambling premises more effectively.

Supporting wider neighbourhood improvements

By embedding GIAs within the Neighbourhood Guarantee, the Government has signalled that managing gambling‑related harm is part of its broader ambition to improve public spaces, support local pride and give communities a stronger voice in shaping their surroundings.

The Guarantee sits alongside other reforms delivered through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act, including enhanced community rights, strengthened local audit arrangements and expanded devolution powers for local leaders.

With devolution and local government reform accelerating, IoL members can stay informed through the Institute of Licensing’s LGR & Devolution Hub, which provides updates, resources and analysis on ongoing changes.