No to extra slot hours

Plans to open a Spalding slot machine business 24 hours a day have been refused on appeal.

Merkur Slots wanted to change its opening hours so it opens its town centre site a full 24 hours.

But the appeal inspector said: “The proposal would result in the creation of a new late-night/early morning use and activity not presently characteristic of the area.”

The refusal also said a lack of objections ‘does not indicate a lack of harm.

“The disputed conditions remain reasonable and necessary,” it concluded.