Residents in some of Dudley's most deprived neighbourhoods are facing a significantly heightened risk of gambling-related harm, a leading charity has warned. This alert follows new research highlighting the location of the borough's gaming arcades.
BBC Research Reveals Concerning Pattern
An investigation by the BBC's Shared Data Unit has pinpointed a troubling trend. It found that both of Dudley's licensed Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) are situated within areas classified among the 20% most deprived in mainland Britain.
These venues, which can operate around the clock, house gaming machines capable of paying out hundreds of pounds. GambleAware, a prominent gambling support charity, states that their presence in areas of economic hardship is a major cause for concern.
Charity and Industry Clash Over Impact
Anna Hargrave, transition CEO of GambleAware, cited the organisation's own research. "Our research has shown those in the most deprived areas are two times more likely to experience gambling harms," she said. "We are concerned by the clustering of gambling venues in the most deprived areas of the country."
She specifically highlighted the dangers associated with gaming machines, noting that one in two people who used them in the past year experienced 'problem gambling'.
The two AGCs in question are Quicksilver on High Street, Brierley Hill, and Shipleys Mirage Centre on Hagley Street, Halesowen, both licensed by Dudley Council.
In response, the gaming industry defended its practices. Allastar Gair, communications director at trade association BACTA, argued that AGCs work under one of the strictest regulatory regimes in the world for low-stake gambling.
"Operators do not target deprived areas; they take on long term empty units and invest in high streets that need regeneration," Gair stated, adding that each new venue undergoes a full licensing process and risk assessment.
Dudley's Position in a National Picture
The BBC research placed Dudley among a small group of just 12 local authorities where 100% of its AGCs are located in high-deprivation areas. Bolton was found to have the highest number in this category, with six AGCs.
On a national scale across England, Scotland, and Wales, the data is stark:
- 48% of all AGCs are located in the two most deprived areas.
- 435 AGCs are in the single most deprived areas nationally.
- 229 are in the second most deprived areas.
Beyond the two AGCs, The Gambling Commission's register shows Dudley also has 26 betting shops, six bingo halls, and one casino, painting a broader picture of gambling accessibility in the borough.
