Gaming centre plan thrown out by Blackpool Council

Blackpool Council’s planning committee voted that it was “mindful to refuse” the application amid fears it would lure more residents into gambling.

Cashino Gaming Ltd had sought permission to convert a former Coral betting shop on Abingdon Street into an adult gaming centre, with town hall planning officers recommending the scheme for approval.

The site is next door to an existing arcade operated by Warwicks Amusements, which was also turned down by the council but got the go ahead on appeal to the planning inspectorate.

Warwicks was among eight objectors to the application from Cashino Gambling, which trades as Merku Slots, and which also wants to open a similar venture in Cleveleys.

Roger Etchells, representing Warwicks, Abingdon Barbecue and Tina’s Cafe all on Abingdon Street, told a meeting of the planning committee held via video link, the scheme would lead to an unacceptable concentration of gaming centres in the area.

But Sam Deegan, representing Cashino Gambling, argued the investment would bring an empty property back into use, create five new jobs and offer different games to the neighbouring Warwicks Amusements.

The application had sought permission to open 24-hours a day, seven days a week but it had been agreed to peg back the hours during the first year to operate no later than 4.30am.

But members of the committee raised concerns about the impact of permitting a gambling venue to open in the town centre aimed at residents.

Coun Fred Jackson said: “One of the things we are trying to do is reduce the number of gambling places in the town because of the deprivation, and the temptation places like this puts in front of people.”

Coun Lynn Williams warned of “over proliferation” of this kind of activity when the council wanted to attract families with children to the resort.

Coun Andrew Stansfield said the town already had problems with gambling addiction.

He added: “This is going to fuel that 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Is it really what we want to make our town centre up of?”

A list of reasons for the refusal will be drawn up before the decision is formally ratified.