So, plans have been submitted for the former Barclays Bank in Spalding to be converted into yet another betting office.
We already have four bookies in the town centre, three of which are in Hall Place.
The applicant states that this would not constitute a proliferation of betting offices within the town centre. If four betting offices, all within a stone’s throw of each other, does not constitute a proliferation, then I would like to know what does.
Do we need to see more empty shops being re-opened in the town centre? Yes!
Do we need to see more employment in the town centre? Yes!
Do we need to see more economic growth in the town centre? Yes!
Do we need to see another betting shop in the town centre? Absolutely not!
It is well documented in the press and on television that many people, both young and old, are addicted to gambling, many of whom have lost everything because of their addiction.
The opening of yet another betting office in the town centre, or anywhere in Spalding for that matter, can hardly help.
I sincerely hope that the council planning committee will reject this application (permanently) otherwise I feel it will be just another nail in the coffin for Spalding town centre.
Graham Podd
Moulton
