Watford will not become “an epicentre for gambling” say politicians who reaffirmed a policy that casinos should not be allowed to operate in the town, this week.

At a meeting on Monday, November 23, Watford Borough Council's elected mayor, Dorothy Thornhill, reaffirmed the council’s position when agreeing licensed premises.

The "statement of principles" that guides the council’s decisions on gambling premises is updated every three years and this amended version will take effect from January 6, 2016.

The policy had cross-party support. Cllr Jan Brown, chairman of the licensing committee, said: “There are currently 72 gambling licences held by businesses in Watford and over the past three years there have been 32 new applications, half of which have been for fruit machines in pubs and 11 for local societies to hold fundraising lotteries.

“We constantly review our statement of gambling policy to ensure Watford does not become an epicentre for gambling.”

Mayor Thornhill added: “Unfortunately we can’t say no to these places but We don’t want our town to become a home for betting shops, arcades, and certainly not a casino. This guidance sets out a firm line for the council when making a decision on issuing gambling licences.”

The new policy had cross party support at the full council meeting.