Lokeren says no to a new betting shop

The trend is confirmed in Belgium, the municipality of Lokeren joins other Belgian municipalities in a desire to limit the proliferation of gaming halls and betting shops.

Lokeren has just refused the opening of a new betting shop, joining the growing list of Belgian municipalities seeking to restrict the presence of these establishments. This decision is part of a context of increased awareness of the issues related to gambling addiction, and comes a few weeks before the entry into force of a new law tightening the regulation of the sector.

Already 5 betting shops available

The city of Lokeren, already equipped with five betting shops, considered that the opening of a sixth establishment was not necessary and could even be detrimental. The local authorities highlighted the concerns related to gambling addiction, as well as the coexistence of these establishments with sensitive places such as schools and hospitals.

A national trend

Lokeren is not an isolated case. Other Belgian cities, such as Genk and Leuven, have already decided to no longer renew the licenses of gambling establishments. This trend can be explained by several factors:

• Awareness of public health issues: Gambling addiction is recognized as a public health problem, with significant social and economic consequences.
• Pressure from civil society: Associations fighting addictions and citizens are increasingly committed to limiting the proliferation of casinos, gaming halls and betting shops.
• Evolution of legislation: The new Belgian law, which will come into force on September 1, will strengthen player protection measures, in particular by raising the minimum age to 21.

Matter of enforcement

While the closure of these establishments seems to be a solution for some municipalities, the question of regulating online gambling arises. Indeed, the development of online casinos offers new gambling opportunities, but also poses new challenges in terms of control and player protection.

The Belgian authorities are aware of these issues and are working to implement increasingly strict regulations in the sector. The aim is to reconcile individual freedom and the protection of the most vulnerable players.