PLANS to relax gaming laws could lead to a big rise in the number of people whose lives are ruined by gambling, welfare groups have warned.

Most restrictions on gambling will be swept away if a new bill unveiled yesterday by the government becomes law.

The moves could lead to an explosion in the number of casinos, with premises open to the public rather than just members. Casinos would also be able to open around the clock, with unlimited jackpots.

But Simon Theobalds, divisional communications manager for the Salvation Army's southern region, said: "We deal with many people who have been damaged by gambling; it's a huge problem.

"Many homeless people we help have fallen through the societies' net because of debt, often due to gambling.

"We're going to see mega-casinos and I'm sure people will be looking to Bourne-mouth for one of these. But who's going to win? The gambling associations and the government through the tax they will get from it.

"This 'concept' that a big casino brings regeneration and investment to a town is confounded by the flip side - the people it damages and the social cost to the community."

Bournemouth already has two casinos and another one planned at the revamped Pavilion, but the council believes the town could benefit from the relaxed laws.

Cllr Anson Westbrook, chairman of the council's licensing committee, said: "None of us wants to produce anything which is addictive but we've got to have people that are grown up and it would bring a lot of extra revenue to the town."

He welcomed the fact that the government was proposing a cut in the number of fruit machines at take-aways and taxi offices but was unhappy that the government was requiring councils to regulate gambling without giving them extra resources.

What do you think about the plans to relax gambling laws? Has your life being been ruined by gambling addiction? Call the Daily Echo with your views on 01202 411260 or email us on newsdesk@bournemouthecho.co.uk.

If you think you may have a problem with gambling, contact the Gamblers Anonymous helpline 08700 508880.

First published: Oct 20