Councils Gain Power to Block Betting Shops | Manchester News

Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s bold new plan gives councils the power to block new betting shops—aimed at reviving high streets and tackling gambling addiction. The move follows a heartbreaking story: Wendy Hughes, a former bookmaker’s clerk, spiraled into slot machine addiction after being lured by a demo game at work, losing £30,000 before her death in 2023. Her daughter was stunned by how fast change is coming. Merkur, the company behind the machines, was fined nearly £95,500 for failing to protect vulnerable users. This episode isn’t just about policy—it’s about real lives lost, and the urgent need for smarter, safer gambling rules. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4c75edef65868955