The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
An adult gaming centre can open in the centre of Spalding, a central government planning inspector has ruled.
Merkur Slots Ltd has been granted change of use planning permission for the former Dorothy Perkins in Market Place.
South Holland District Council planning officers had previously rejected the application, but the company appealed to the planning inspectorate which has over-ruled the local council decision.
A separate appeal made by Merkur with regards to erecting an illuminated sign outside of the building has been thrown out.
The planning inspector for the Secretary of State, a Mr B Plenty, decided against the adult gaming centre being able to open 24/7 instead inserting a condition it can open from 7am until 12am, Monday to Saturday and 10am to 12am on Sundays.
SHDC refused the application citing concerns over the ‘vitality of the high street’, the ‘character and appearance’ and increased crime and anti-social behaviour.
The inspector’s report though states: “I have not been provided with robust evidence to demonstrate a clear link between the proposal and anti-social activity.
“Furthermore, the appellant’s ‘Company Brochure’ illustrates that no alcohol would be sold on site, that customers tend to attend on their own or as couples only and the business largely attracts shift workers in the late evening.
“The council’s Economic Development Team raise concerns that the proposal may discourage other retailers from taking space in the town.
“However, due to an absence of clear evidence of a negative effect, it is unconvincing that the use would discourage future investment.
“In contrast, the proposal would be likely to enhance the town’s viability by encouraging greater customer footfall.”
It continues “The council identifies that an over proliferation of non-retail uses, such as hot food takeaways and betting shops, within the primary shopping frontage, can impact activity within the centre and will be resisted. However, during my visit I only identified one other adult gaming centre within the relatively large town centre of around 300 units.
“In combination with the existing unit these together would represent an extremely small proportion of the total number of units within the centre. As a result, the proposal would not result in an over proliferation of similar uses.
“The proposed use would complement the locally diverse character of activities.
“It would also employ around 12 staff and reoccupy a vacant unit, delivering minor economic and environmental benefits to the area.”
The inspector also said he was happy with Merkur’s noise assessments and plans to limit disturbances for local residents.
The full judgement can be read here.
