"This is not something our community needs": Resident starts petition against 24-hour Bedford adult gaming centre
A frustrated Bedford resident has posted a petition to stop plans for a gambling centre in Silver Street.
And in just a few days, the petition – started by Andrew Jarrett – has already attracted nearly 100 signatures.
Bedford Today first revealed the possibility of a new adult gaming centre at the former Clintons card site back in April.
And last week, Bedford borough councillors gave Future Leisure Limited a premises licence DESPITE significant concerns from councillors, residents and the police.
In the petition on change.org, Mr Jarrett said: “The proposed opening of a new gambling centre at 19 Silver Street in Bedford is not something our community needs. The fact that our law enforcement – the police – are not in favour of this establishment speaks volumes. It is a clear indicator that the opening of yet another gambling venue could lead to unwanted consequences, including increased crime rates and social issues.”
He went on to say: “Our town is in desperate need of a revival. Over the years, numerous shops have shut their doors, leaving vacant spaces and diminishing the attractiveness of Bedford as a bustling town. The economy of our town is suffering, and the answer is not another gambling centre but rather businesses that promote growth and community well-being.”
Before adding: “Bedford Borough Council has a responsibility to shape the future of our town in a positive manner.”
Last week, the council’s licensing panel was also concerned what impact the new 24-hour adult gaming centre could have on the town.
But said there was “little evidence” that existing gambling premises in the area, particularly machine-based premises, had been associated with crime or disorder despite Bedfordshire Police’s fears.
And they granted the licence subject to mandatory conditions and a series of additional requirements. These include:
>Comprehensive CCTV coverage
>A Think 25 age-verification policy
>Magnetic locking system requiring customers to be admitted by staff overnight
>An incident log
>A minimum of two staff members on duty whenever the premises is open
>An SIA-licensed door supervisor between 11pm and 7am
The licensing panel also barred gaming machines from being seen through the front windows by passers-by.