Home Blog Page 111

Gedling MP says he has ‘serious concerns’ about plans for battery storage site near Lambley

David Bratton
-
2
Gedling MP says he has ‘serious concerns’ about plans for battery storage site near Lambley

Gedling MP Michael Payne has written to Gedling Borough Council raising ‘serious concerns’ about plans for a battery energy storage system (BESS) on land between Burton Joyce and Lambley.

If plans submitted by developer Grenergy are approved, a BESS site would be built on green fields at Burton Wood Farm, off Spring Lane.

A public meeting was held on Monday, January 27, organised by a local opposition group, giving residents the opportunity to raise their concerns about the safety of the site and potential environmental damage.

More than 250 objections have been submitted by members of the public to Gedling Borough Council over plans.

Now MP Payne has joined calls for plans to be rejected.

In a letter to the authority he wrote: “There appears to be no substantive justification – in the form of Very Special Circumstances – for the unacceptable impact this proposed development would have on the openness of the green belt”

PICTURED: Land earmarked for the new BESS site near Lambley (IMAGE: Google)

“The proposed Battery Energy Storage System is not a facility for the increased production of energy from renewable energy sources, it is an energy storage system. It is therefor highly questionable as to whether ‘very special circumstances’ are met by this proposed facility within the green belt, which would have an overbearing and significant impact on historic open green space and agricultural land in the immediate surrounds of Lambley village.”

He also raised concerns about flood risk, fire risk and noise pollution.

He concluded “I would implore Gedling Borough Council to seriously consider the negative impact of allowing such a development at this location.”

BESS are being built across the UK to help balance the electricity grid, which is becoming increasingly powered by renewables.

The systems hold electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind turbines and solar farms.

Developer Grenergy said that fire safety and preventing noise pollution would be at the ‘forefront of all considerations’ at the proposed site.

They also claimed the site would power 300,000 Houses per hour and save 1.77 tonnes of carbon over a 40-year period

In a statement on their website they said: “BESS sites are under frequent scrutiny regarding fire safety, due to the large quantities of lithium-ion batteries in a confined space.

“Engagement with local fire authority and planning authority with emergency response plans, fire water management strategies and fire safety management plans.
Separation distances or thermal barriers are being placed between all equipment, including the battery containers.

In response to fears around noise pollution they said: “The batteries themselves produce very little noise, however, cooling fans are required to maintain the batteries at the correct temperature emit some noise. With any planning application a detailed noise assessment is completed to ensure the plant causes no detriment to local sound levels.”

What is a battery energy storage system

Battery energy storage systems (BESSs) use batteries, for example lithium-ion batteries, to store electricity at times when supply is higher than demand. They can then later release electricity when it is needed.

What are ‘Very Special Circumstances’ when it comes to planning?

If a proposed development has the potential to ‘provide significant environmental benefits’ or ‘enhance the visual amenity of the area’, it could be considered a very special circumstance for granting planning permission in the Green Belt. 

Notts council leaders welcome local government reform but reject idea of city expansion

Lauren Monaghan
-
0
Notts council leaders welcome local government reform but reject idea of city expansion

Nottinghamshire political leaders have welcomed the merging of councils in the Government’s proposed plans to overhaul local authorities, but they say Nottingham City Council’s borders should not be expanded.

The Labour Government’s English Devolution White Paper from December 2024 supported giving powers back to local areas through the creation of more “strategic authorities” and new combined councils.

These would replace the existing ‘two-tier’ structures like here in Nottinghamshire, where services are split between lower and upper-tier councils.

Nottingham City Council is a unitary authority, meaning it has sole responsibility for all the services in its area such as social care, waste collection and disposal and parks.

However, in the county, the ‘upper-tier’ county council is responsible for services such as social care, education and waste disposal.

In districts and boroughs, the seven, smaller lower-tier councils have responsibility for services like housing, planning, bin collections and parks.

Abolishing the two-tier structure would mean all seven of Nottinghamshire’s district and boroughs could disappear by 2027 or 2028.

The leaders of the county’s councils saw the suggested nine options for local government reorganisation in Nottinghamshire last Friday (February 14).

The first was a ‘super council’, which would cover the city and county.

The second would see the City Council remain, with the county taking on the services run by the districts and boroughs, meaning boundaries would remain similar.

The remaining options discussed city expansion, which includes varying degrees of the city expanding into Gedling, Broxtowe or Rushcliffe.

But this later option was something rejected by Councillor Sam Smith (Con), who’s the leader of the county council.

He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “If the city [council] take over their areas they’re going to lose access to services, access to libraries, get worse care and pay more tax.

“That is the strongest reason why I’m not in favour of city expansion – it means worse services.”

He added if a reorganisation of the councils in the county can “smooth” out and “streamline” services to create a “one-stop shop” for residents accessing council services, then he supports the changes.

Cllr Neil Clarke (Con), who’s leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council, added: “My immediate priority is to protect the residents of Rushcliffe and the good services they receive.

“Any suggestion that our area would be combined into the city would result in a severely reduced standard of service and their tax would go up.

“It’s completely unacceptable talking about Rushcliffe becoming a part of the City.”

In a statement, Rushcliffe’s Labour MP, James Naish, said “financially sustainable authorities” need to be created in line with the government’s plans.

He believes “limited changes” to existing boundaries can be achieved.

However, he noted the higher ‘tax pull’ in the south of Nottinghamshire compared with the north, where service demand is “higher in the north”.

For example, more than half of all homes in Mansfield are of the lower Band A council tax banding, whereas greater numbers of Rushcliffe homes are in Band D and above.

The MP says that this would mean a ‘North Notts Council’ would find it harder to ‘pay its way’.

Nottingham City Council was approached for comment on the proposed changes.

A spokesman referred the Local Democracy Reporting Service back to the joint statement made on behalf of all the councils on February 7, which reads: “Councils have until March 21 to submit initial plans and preparatory work across all nine local authorities have already started.

“This is the biggest shake-up of local government in 50 years and following the initial plan, councils will be asked to submit their final proposals by 28 November.

“All nine councils will continue to work together in the public interest, exploring all options available that meet the Government’s requirements.”

Vandalised Arnold town church could be converted into new apartments

Lauren Monaghan
-
0
Vandalised Arnold town church could be converted into new apartments

A vacant church in Arnold is due to be converted into apartments after permission was granted by the borough council.

Cross Street Baptist Church will be redeveloped into nine flats after plans were submitted by 9 Property Group Ltd to Gedling Borough Council.

The plans, granted by the council on Thursday (February 13), also include another 14 apartments being built in a new four-storey building next to the revamped church, meaning there will be 23 new apartments in total.

The church was built in 1909, replacing a previous chapel that was built in 1825, but it closed in 2020.

A two-storey extension at the south of the church believed to have been attached to the previous chapel and acted as school rooms will be partly retained in plans, with the very east section to be demolished.

A report on the plans say the building has been vandalised, and several windows have been broken and damaged.

An environmental health officer says the applicant “will need to put measures in place to reduce the likelihood of trespassing during the construction phase”.

In the church conversion, there will be five duplex apartments, with three one-bed and two, two-beds, along with four single-storey apartments with one as a two-bed and the rest with one bedroom.

The single-storey flats will be on the ground floor, and the two-storey duplexes on the first floor.

Included in the work is new access at the first floor level and a new staircase leading to the walkway.

The new build block will include a private patio and garden area. No parking spaces will be provided as the site slopes downwards.

Three of the apartments come under ‘first homes’ and two are affordable rent.

Cryptocurrency trading, strategies, and risks

Sponsored Content
-
0
Cryptocurrency trading, strategies, and risks

The cryptocurrency market has revolutionised the way assets are traded, offering dynamic opportunities for traders to engage with digital assets in real time. As this ecosystem grows, it is crucial to understand the nuances of crypto trading, the strategies that drive success, and the risks involved.

What is Crypto Trading?

Cryptocurrency trading is the process of buying and selling crypto assets to profit from price fluctuations. Unlike traditional markets, cryptocurrency markets operate 24/7 and are decentralized, allowing direct transactions or those facilitated by intermediaries such as brokers. Many brokers enhance accessibility through a cryptocurrency broker program, providing crypto exchange tools and support for beginner and experienced traders.

Crypto trading platforms offer various methods to trade, including spot trading, where digital assets are traded at real-time prices, and CFD trading in crypto, allowing traders to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying asset. Successful trading requires a solid understanding of crypto market analysis, which examines market trends and data to guide decision-making.

Common Crypto Trading Strategies

Traders adopt diverse strategies to capitalize on market opportunities. Below are some of the most widely used strategies:

  • Spot trading involves the immediate purchase or sale of cryptocurrencies at the current market price. It is straightforward and is often the starting point for those new to the market.
  • Scalping focuses on small, frequent profits by exploiting minor price fluctuations. Scalpers typically execute multiple trades within short time frames, requiring precision and discipline.
  • Swing trading targets medium-term price movements, with traders holding positions for several days or weeks. This approach combines crypto market analysis and market sentiment evaluation to identify potential trends.
  • Arbitrage involves buying a cryptocurrency on one exchange and selling it on another where the price is higher. This strategy takes advantage of price disparities across platforms.
  • Trend-following strategies aim to identify and capitalize on long-term market movements. Traders analyze broader price patterns and often use tools like technical analysis for crypto assets to confirm trends and refine entry and exit points.

Risks in Digital Asset Trading and Methods to Reduce Them

Volatility in crypto markets makes them a high-risk environment. Below are the key risks and methods to reduce them:

  • Market volatility. Sudden and unpredictable price movements can lead to significant gains or losses. Traders can reduce this risk by setting stop-loss orders and using strategies that align with their risk tolerance.
  • Liquidity risks. Some cryptocurrencies lack sufficient liquidity, making it challenging to buy or sell large amounts without affecting the market price. Diversifying portfolios to include high-liquidity assets can help manage this risk.
  • Regulatory uncertainty. Governments worldwide continue to shape their regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies. Sudden changes in regulations can impact market conditions. Staying informed about regulatory developments is crucial.
  • Security concerns. Breaches of crypto trading platforms and personal wallets remain a concern. Choosing secure platforms, enabling two-factor authentication, and storing assets in hardware wallets are effective ways to minimize risks.

Crypto trading offers immense opportunities, but it requires a clear understanding of market dynamics, effective strategies, and risk management. Whether engaging in spot trading or exploring advanced techniques like arbitrage, success hinges on a disciplined approach and informed decision-making.

People in Gedling borough being warned over fake Boots email scam targeting personal data

Emily Sanchez
-
0
People in Gedling borough being warned over fake Boots email scam targeting personal data

People across Gedling borough are being warned about the latest phishing scam doing the rounds.

The scam involves fake emails that claim to be from Nottingham-based healthcare giant Boots.

The emails offer the recipients a free Medicare Kit.

The fraudulent messages, which have been reported locally and also more than 740 times nationally to Action Fraud in just two weeks.

The emails are designed to steal personal and financial information.

How the Scam Works

The scam emails tell recipients they have won a prize, such as a Medicare Kit, and contain links that lead to malicious websites.

Once clicked, these links direct users to fraudulent pages that closely mimic legitimate websites, tricking them into entering sensitive information such as passwords, bank details, or personal identification.

Full list of road closures and roadworks planned across Gedling borough

Gedling Eye
-
0
Full list of road closures and roadworks planned across Gedling borough

There are a number of road closures in place across Gedling borough this week that drivers should be aware of.

Some roads are closed while others have lane closures. Temporary traffic measures or diversion routes may also be in place on roads in the region. Motorists are urged to make allowances for these closures and alter their travel arrangements if necessary.

If you’re planning to travel through the borough over the next few weeks take a look at the list below to see whether your journey will be affected.

Arnold

Laver Close, Arnold
18 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Gedling Road, Arnold
20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Nottingham Road, Arnold
20 February – 21 February
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Harwood Close, Arnold
20 February – 21 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Jermyn Drive, Arnold
20 February – 24 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Mansfield Road, Redhill
23 February
Roadworks, Delays likely due to lane closure
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Lime Lane, Arnold
24 February
Roadworks, Delays likely from Lodge Farm
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Wordsworth Road, Arnold
25 February – 27 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Bestwood

Mill Lane, Bestwood Village
18 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Burton Joyce

Grove Close, Burton Joyce
22 February – 24 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Calverton

Bonner Lane, Calverton
24 February – 24 February
Delays likely due to road closure from Bonner Hill to A6097 Oxton Bypass.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Roadworks

Carlton

Oakdale Road, Carlton
19 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Towes Mount, Carlton
19 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Shipley Rise, Carlton
19 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Oxford Street, Carlton
19 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Forester Grove, Carlton
19 February – 04 March
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Southdale Road, Carlton
20 February – 21 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Towes Mount, Carlton
20 February – 21 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Buntings Lane, Carlton
24 February
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Carlton Hill, Carlton
24 February – 25 February
Roadworks, Delays likely for installation of bus shelter opposite Cromwell Street
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Ranmoor Road, Carlton
24 February – 27 February
Delays likely due to road closure for patching repairs at the junction with Main Road
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Mayfield Road, Carlton
25 February – 28 February
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Carlton Hill, Carlton
26 February – 27 February
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Vodafone

Gedling

Arnold Lane, Gedling
21 February – 22 February
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: MBNL

Arnold Lane, Gedling
24 February
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Beverley Gardens, Gedling
25 February – 26 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Lambley

Park Lane, Lambley
19 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible for pothole repairs from just after entrance of Lambley Grane in easterly direction for approximately 100m.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Linby

N/A

Mapperley

Hallam Road, Mapperley
25 February
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Mapperley Plains, Mapperley
25 February
Roadworks, Delays possible to remove failed hawthorn between Chartwell Grove and Orchard Park
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Netherfield

N/A

Ravenshead

Nottingham Road, Ravenshead
24 February – 04 April
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Cadent

Vernon Crescent, Ravenshead
26 February – 27 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Virgin Media

Woodborough

Foxwood Lane, Woodborough
19 February – 20 February
Delays possible for manhole repairs from Lammas Lodge
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Woodthorpe

Woodthorpe Drive, Woodthorpe
19 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

More than 130,000 money-savvy train passengers benefit from discounted ticket scheme on borough route

Emily Sanchez
-
0
More than 130,000 money-savvy train passengers benefit from discounted ticket scheme on borough route

East Midlands Railway (EMR) has seen more than 130,000 regional customers take advantage of Advance Purchase tickets since their introduction on two key routes.

Since launching last year, EMR has sold 131,663 Advance Purchase tickets on the Nottingham to Lincoln and to Crewe routes.

Customers travelling between Nottingham and Lincoln have purchased 96,844 Advance Purchase tickets, while those on the Crewe route have secured 34,819 discounted fares.

These figures highlight the growing demand for rail travel across the region and demonstrate how customers are increasingly planning ahead to secure the best-value fares.

Advance Purchase tickets allow travellers to save up to 60% on their journey. They also help EMR manage demand by encouraging travel during off-peak times, reducing crowding on busier services.

Top Tips for Using Advance Purchase Tickets

Travel Off-Peak – Ticket prices are often lower during quieter weekday and weekend periods.
Book on the Day of Travel – Some Advance fares may be available on the same day; check via the EMR app.
Use a Railcard – Save up to a third on Advance tickets with a Railcard (remember to carry it when travelling).

Simon Pready, Commercial Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many customers taking advantage of our Advance Purchase tickets on the Lincoln and Crewe routes. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, proving that planning ahead is the key to unlocking great value.

“We are always looking at how we can introduce more Advance tickets on other routes and are hopeful this can be achieved soon.”

Council funds improvements to late night bus services in Calverton

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Council funds improvements to late night bus services in Calverton

Bus passengers in Calverton are set to benefit from more frequent buses and timetable changes thanks to funding from a council. 

Nottinghamshire County Council will be part-funding improvements to trentbarton’s ‘Calverton’ evening service

trentbarton’s evening service will see an hourly Monday to Thursday service and a bus every 30 minutes on Saturday evenings, with improvements also made to the timetable. Effective from Sunday 2 March 2025. 

The improvements come thanks to the county council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding and working in partnership with trentbarton.

Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “It’s fantastic that we are always looking to improve our local bus services around the county and offer the best value for money.

“We have looked at passenger demand and where amendments can be made to timetables and routes so that the overall experience can be a positive one. Passengers will also notice that buses will be arriving at stops more promptly and will get them around the county, whether that’s to their place of work or to local amenities.

“It is important that these changes have been put in place, as passengers should feel confident that when they catch the bus, it will arrive on time. 

“And of course these enhancements wouldn’t have been possible without the BSIP funding and the fantastic partnership and working relationships we have with all of our local bus operators” 

Where to open a business in Carlton Hill: opportunities and best locations

Sponsored Content
-
0
Where to open a business in Carlton Hill: opportunities and best locations

Carlton Hill is an area with great potential for entrepreneurs looking to establish new businesses. Whether you’re considering a café, a retail store, a seasonal venture, or a tech startup, understanding the local economy, seasonal fluctuations, and consumer behaviour is crucial for success.

This article explores the most promising businesses to establish in Carlton Hill, how different seasons impact business success, career opportunities for young people in the city, and the best locations for opening a new business.

Getting to Know Carlton Hill’s Business Environment

Carlton Hill is a mixed community, so it is an ideal place for a range of businesses, from established retail outlets to new service-based businesses. The area has both locals and tourists visiting, so businesses that serve both purposes stand the chance of doing well.

Some of the main industries in Carlton Hill are:

Retail and Shopping – Fashion boutiques, bookstores, and specialty retailers do well in the district.

Hospitality – Bars, restaurants, and cafés are sustained by the neighborhood’s active social scene.

Tech and Startups – Students and young professionals create demand for tech services and co-working spaces.

Health and Wellbeing – Gyms, yoga studios, and alternative therapy centers are becoming more popular.

Tourism and Culture – Museums, galleries, and heritage sites offer a steady flow of visitors, which sustains tourism-related enterprises.

What Businesses Need to Thrive in Carlton Hill?

It’s worth noting that different times of the year play better for different businesses, depending on what’s changing with customers’ demand and lifestyles.

Best Business in Summer

Due to the increased foot traffic in streets during summer and more time spent outdoors, businesses such as

Outdoor Restaurants and Cafés – As daylight lasts longer and the weather gets warmer, establishments that can provide al fresco seating and summer-inspired menus will be more attractive to customers.

Seasonal Market Stalls – Farmers’ markets, crafts, and street food stalls always do well in public areas during summer.

Tourism and Experiences – Guided walking tours, bicycle rentals, and guided city tours will perform well in tourist areas.

Event Planning and Entertainment – Summer festival season is an opportunity for event planners, DJs, and mobile catering businesses.

Best Businesses for the Winter Months

Winter requires businesses that cater to indoor activities and winter retail trends. Some of the most promising business ideas for winter include:

Cosy Cafés and Bakeries – Individuals seek hot, cosy places during colder months. Specializing in hot drinks and winter treats can be a profitable move.

Retail Outlets for Holiday Shopping: Those businesses that deal in gift items, decorations, and winter accessories experience a boost during these days before Christmas.

Gyms and Health Clubs – January being a peak month for getting into shape, a mid-month investment in any gym or yoga studio does the trick.

Home Services – Insulation services, heating repair, and winter house maintenance companies get increased demand during cold weather.

Job Opportunities for Youth in Carlton Hill

Young people form a significant segment of Carlton Hill’s workforce, and most businesses offer part-time and seasonal employment. Some of the common job opportunities for young people include:

Retail Jobs – Retailers typically hire sales assistants, cashiers, and stockroom attendants, especially during peak shopping seasons.

Hospitality and Food Service – Restaurants, bars, and cafes require waiters, baristas, and kitchen attendants, so this is one of the simplest sectors for youngsters to get a job in.

Event Staffing – Cultural festivals, music festivals, and seasonal fairs offer temporary employment in ticketing, security, and vendor support.

Internships and Apprenticeships – Startups and small businesses offer internships in marketing, business administration, and technical development, which offer excellent experience for students.

Tourism and Guiding Services – Carlton Hill being a tourist attraction site, tour guides and museum attendants are needed, particularly during summer.

It is feasible to motivate young people to work in these fields in order to make the local economy stronger and more entrepreneurial.

For young people seeking jobs in Carlton Hill, having a well-structured CV is essential to stand out in competitive industries such as retail, hospitality, and event staffing. A simple CV template should include key sections such as Personal Statement, Work Experience, Education, Skills, and References. For example:

Best Places to Start A Business in Carlton Hill

Every business needs to find the right location. Here are some of the most popular locations for various businesses in Carlton Hill:

1. High Street – Ideal for Hospitality and Retail

High Street is Carlton Hill’s business center. With a steady and greater number of pedestrians, it is ideal for:

Clothing stores

Bookstores

Coffee shops and bakeries

Restaurants and fast-casual eateries

2. Market Square – Ideal for Seasonal and Small Businesses

Market Square is ideal for business owners who wish to begin small and then grow. It’s a great place for:

Street food stalls

Farmers’ markets

Craft stalls and pop-up shops

Christmas markets in the holiday season

3. Business Parks – Ideal for Offices and Tech Startups

Business parks and shared office spaces are ideal for:

Tech startups

Marketing firms

Consultancy businesses

Remote workers and freelancers

4. Close to Transport Hubs – Suitable for Convenience-Based Businesses

Setting up shop near bus or train stations offers easy accessibility. The following types of businesses perform well in such locations:

Newsagents and convenience stores

Coffee-to-go ventures

Bike rentals and repair shops

Commuter fast food restaurants

5. Residential Areas – Best for Local Services

If your business is catering to residents rather than tourists, then a spot in a more subdued residential area may be perfect. The following are the best types of ventures in residential neighborhoods:

Local grocery stores

Hair salons and beauty services

Childcare and tutoring services

Home improvement and handyman businesses

Why Carlton Hill is a Great Business Location

Carlton Hill is full of business opportunities for a wide range of industries. Whether you want to open a trendy café, retail store, or tech business, this area has what it takes to succeed. By meeting seasonal demands, choosing the right location, and offering jobs for young people, entrepreneurs can create successful and viable businesses.

As with any startup, careful planning is required. Everything from a good location to spending money on business logo creation and branding requires effort and planning when starting up a business. With the proper strategy, nevertheless, Carlton Hill can be an excellent place in which to take a business idea and turn it into a success.

Top tips from NewCasinos for staying safe online in 2025

Sponsored Content
-
0
Top tips from NewCasinos for staying safe online in 2025

Having fun is perhaps the most important thing when gambling at online casinos, but adopting proper safety and privacy habits runs a very close second. Though there are many great and safe places to have fun playing slots or video poker online, it’s still always a wise move to take certain precautions.

Here are the most important safety tips to take with you into 2025 for online gambling:

Always use a licensed casino

Arguably the most important thing you can do to protect your cash and your personal info is to only register with an online casino that is properly licensed and regulated.

Licensed casinos are far safer than unlicensed casinos for multiple reasons. The fact that they passed tests and earned their certificates proves that they abide by fair rules that ensure they are not trying to scam their customers. It also proves that they are willing to comply with the laws of their country and aren’t trying to pull a fast one on anybody.

Licensed casinos are also far more likely to provide fair, timely payouts, regardless of the method used. One of the most annoying things you can encounter when using an online casino is having your payouts or withdrawals delayed or paused for any reason. Sometimes this is due to a misunderstanding, but other times it can be an establishment trying to keep your winnings for themselves, even though you earned them fair and square. Dealing with a licensed casino greatly reduces the odds of this happening.

Luckily, finding online casinos that are trustworthy and licensed is easier than ever before. Sites such as NewCasinos have extensive lists of casinos that are well reviewed and known for their transparency and fairness.

Use payment methods that are secure

When choosing an online casino, it’s paramount to select one that’s compatible with your preferred payment methods. This applies to both deposits and withdrawals. Not all payment options are equal – some are not only faster but safer too.

Major credit cards like Amex, Visa and Mastercard are solid options, and they can be fast as well, depending on the casino and its location. If you want even more security, you can use an e-wallet service like PayPal, which is known for its top-notch security features.

If you want to go even beyond that, you could always use a cryptocurrency option. Crypto payments are the best when it comes to privacy, as these transactions are anonymous and very hard to trace. They don’t require you to input any information outside of your coin wallet’s address, making them extremely discreet.

Keep in mind that crypto is very much a double-edged sword, as cutting-edge as the technology may be. Though they have increased in popularity among online casinos over the past couple of years, they are still not quite mainstream. If you opt for crypto, it will limit the number of online casinos you can use.

Also keep in mind that many places will only accept the most popular types of cryptocurrencies, namely Bitcoin, Bitcoin Lite, Dogecoin and Ethereum.

Don’t forget to use extra precautions with your sign-in methods, such as dual-factor authentication. This will heavily reduce the odds of you becoming a victim to any media scams looking to steal your personal info.

Don’t go over budget

Though not everyone needs to hear this, it’s very important to set a strict budget and stick to it if you are concerned about your spending or habits. Online gambling ought to be treated as a form of entertainment, not a way to make a quick buck. If you can easily adopt that mindset then great, but if not, then you should take preliminary measures to make sure your budgeting is under control.

You could try a third-party budgeting app to help you set a budget for the week or the month. If you hit the limit, you’ll know it’s time to take a break and put your favourite slot games on pause for the time being.

When people go over budget while gambling, it can only lead to stress, which defeats the purpose of gambling in the first place. Gambling is more enjoyable when you know you are doing it responsibly and won’t have any consequences to deal with after your gaming session is over. There is absolutely no shame in needing a little extra help setting up budgets to make sure that you are getting the most out of your experience.

Only gamble when you are in a good mood

Like driving or consuming alcohol, gambling is something you should participate in only when you’re feeling up to it. This is good advice not only from a recreational but also a responsibility perspective.

You want every spin at the slot machine to feel fun, exciting and unpredictable. This can be lost on you if you are in a bad mood of any sort. It’s not much of a secret these days that feeling stressed can lead to impulse purchases, and the same logic applies to gambling. If you’re turning to the slots as a way to avoid or deal with stress, you may inadvertently end up spending more than you planned. This, ironically, will only lead to more long-term stress.

This is why you shouldn’t use gambling as a way to get into a good mood, but instead only use it when you are already feeling good. People make their most rational decisions when they are feeling good, not when they are under pressure. Looking for coping mechanisms and habits outside of gambling will be your best bet to enjoying gambling fully. It’s a hobby, not a form of stress management.

1...110111112...1,015Page 111 of 1,015