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Geographica 47/1 (2016)

Acta Universitatis Palackianae Olomucensis Facultas Rerum Naturalium September 2016 Geographica 47 | 1
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Gambling and its accessibility: case study of Olomouc (Czech Republic)

David Fiedor

Full text: PDF (3 MB)

Received: 14 July 2016
Accepted: 25 August 2016

Abstract
The issue of gambling, which the article discusses, is – in terms of scientific approach – a rather neglected topic in the Czech Republic, although in recent years gambling has enjoyed signifi cant media coverage. This geographical contribution to the study of gambling at a local level lies mainly in the exploration of its spatial distribution and the related accessibility. Many studies have shown the impact of the accessibility of gambling on the prevalence of problem and pathological gambling. This article aims to analyse the spatial concentration of gambling venues in Olomouc and explain the localization of its centres. For this purpose, we used the kernel density function in the ArcGIS programme. We have defi ned two kernels, one in the historical centre of Olomouc and the other near the main railway station. Both the gambling centres are easily accessible locations and it is also possible to connect them with a higher number of crimes committed. In conclusion, we also analysed Masarykova Street, which is the street with far and away the highest number of gambling venues in the city. We paid attention to the link between the presence of gambling venues and associated service facilities such as ATMs and pawnbrokers.

Key words
gambling, accessibility, availability, Olomouc, Czech Republic, case study