Plans for 24-hour gambling centre set to be approved

A council report says the proposal would create employment opportunities and increase footfall in the town

Plans for a new gambling centre in Worksop that will operate 24 hours a day are set to be given the go-ahead.

Applicant Champion Gaming Ltd has submitted an application to Bassetlaw District Council to convert the former Greenwoods clothing store in Bridge Street into an adult gaming centre.

The proposal received 26 objections from residents who raised concerns over anti-social behaviour in the town, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said.

However, a report prepared for Bassetlaw District Council's planning committee says the proposal would create employment opportunities and increase footfall in the town.

According to the LDRS, the ground floor of the site will see electronic gaming and amusement machines, and the first floor will contain offices and storage spaces.

If plans are approved, the centre will operate for 24 hours a day, employ five full-time staff members and a part-time head office staff member.

The application received objections from residents over the noise impact on the town centre.

Others said gambling "should not be encouraged" in a "deprived" area.

The applicant said it would take measures to control the potential for noise disturbances through double-glazing of the property.

The officers' report adds the proposed centre would not generate "unacceptable levels" of noise or harm the "vitality" of the town centre.

Members of the council's planning committee are recommended to approve the application when they meet on 21 May.