“Sinking lid” on gaming machine numbers

On 8 August 2023, Council adopted the Class 4 Venues Policy and the TAB Venues Policy, and both are now in effect. Thank you to everyone who made a submission.

The Class 4 Venues Policy now has a "sinking lid" on the total number of gaming (pokie) machines operating in the district. There are currently 36 in operation. Council will not grant consent for additional gaming machines. When gaming machine numbers have reduced to 27, the maximum number will be capped, and there will only be 27 in operation at any one time.

While the Class 4 Gambling Policy still allows an operator to move to new premises, the applicant must meet new criteria to be eligible.

There's no change to the TAB Venue Policy, which continues to restrict the establishment of stand-alone venues. Visit Stratford.govt.nz/our-council/council-documents/policies to view these and other council policies.