Gambling store wants to open 24/7

Merkur Slots has applied to open its Spalding branch 24-hours a day.

The application to open the Hall Place outlet was initially refused by South Holland District Council in September 2021 after a host of opposition.
However the central government planning inspector over-turned that decision on the condition it can open from 7am until 12am, Monday to Saturday and 10am to 12am on Sundays.
Its report states: “24-hour use could harm the living conditions of existing residents. There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the town has a late-night culture.”
Merkur Slots opened in October and now it has applied to the district council again to open 24-hours a day.
In documents submitted with the application, planning agent Archo Consulting on behalf of Merkur, states: “A worst-case scenario assessment of noise from patrons standing outside the venue was undertaken and demonstrates that noise impacts are not anticipated.
“Based on the outcome of the assessment, noise impacts are not anticipated and the site is considered suitable for 24-hour operation.”
The documents continue that the idea behind opening beyond midnight is for “predominantly the local entertainment workforce and shift workers who like to relax after their busy shifts.”