South Holland leader supports higher gambling taxes to boost high street funding
Increased taxation to discourage gambling while supporting local businesses
South Holland District Council leader Nick Worth has expressed his approval for higher taxes on gambling shops, noting that his district, particularly Spalding, has seen a significant increase in such establishments recently.
Spalding's high street has witnessed the openings of gambling shops, including Merkur Slots and BoyleSport, contributing to concerns about excessive gambling options.
Councillor Worth stated his position clearly: “We’ve got too many gambling places in our high street already – and at times when people really need to be thinking about every penny they’ve got."
By increasing taxes on higher stake gambling machines from 20% to 25%, Councillor Nick Worth hopes that it will make individuals consider the implications of gambling or opening new gambling shops, ultimately supporting the high street.
He said: “If we can discourage people from gambling, then fine, but if they really want to take up gambling then they pay an extra charge and that comes back to the high street – that’s got to be a good thing,”.
With many local businesses to benefit from these adjustments, the council leader's support for higher gambling taxes resonates with broader ambitions to foster economic stability and enhance high street vitality.