PLANNING bosses at Warrington have thrown out to proposals to open two new betting shops in the town centre.
The two properties – one in Bridge Street and the other in Buttermarket Street – were both within 30 yards of Market Gate.
Planning officers recommended both be approved.
But there was strong opposition to both schemes and members of the borough council’s planning sub-committee decided they should be refused.
Dale Estates Ltd applied for permission to change the use of a shop at 8, Bridge Street
It was opposed by Coun Pat Wright, two town centre businesses and town centre manager Nick White.
Done Brothers applied to change the use of a shop at 11, Buttermarket Street. It was opposed by the same objectors.
The town centre manager said the proposals would be harmful to the vitality and vibrancy of upper Bridge Street.
He pointed out there were already four betting shops in the town centre, located outside the main retail core.
Councillor Wright said the proposals would be detrimental to the long term character and vitality of the town centre, representing non-retail use in the town’s principal retail shopping area.
