In December 2019, Praesepe, a British bingo, arcade gaming and gambling firm, submitted an application to the Bolton Council for a 24-hour gaming venue, and after months of deliberating the application has finally been given the go ahead! Although, there are no signs of when the venue could be up and running.
The former Ladbrokes betting shop in Deane Road was earmarked as a possible venue for around the clock gaming last year, but the authorities weren’t exactly thrilled with the prospect of gambling 24/7. A lengthy letter opposing the plans was submitted to the planning team, a letter by a concerned resident over fears of anti-social behaviour and the lack of adequate parking facilities.
All points for and against were discussed in a planning hearing earlier this week…
…with some requesting there be a trial period before committing to the venue 100%. Ibrahim Adia, Rumworth councillor, thought the 24-7 gambling was “excessive,” however, planning officers went ahead with issuing a gambling license after the operating hours were reduced from 24-hoours, 7-days a week to 8am to midnight daily.
Bolton council said: said: “The local planning authority entered into discussions with the applicant as it was felt that 24-hour use was not appropriate in this locality. The applicant agreed to condition the hours as 8am to 10pm in line with those recommended by Pollution Control.”
Lots More, ‘More’:
Not only is the gambling arcade chain Cashino (Merkur) set to bring more entertainment to the area, but it will bring more jobs too, something the area could do with more of. But that didn’t stop the residents voicing their anger with claims there would be an increase in crime due to the gambling venue being there.
The newly approved gaming venue won’t be the only venue of its kind in the Bolton area, because there is already a 24/7 establishment in Brackley St, Farnworth, delivering around the clock games and free refreshments. Makes you wonder where all the fuss came from!
Richard Bradley, a representative of Cashino Gaming Ltd said there was no evidence of crime or disorder in the immediate vicinity, so those angry voices were soon drowned out. Many people welcomed the prospect of a new place to play bingo and casino games it will employ five full time members of staff and services will include complimentary teas, coffees and soft drinks as well as snacks, re-heated finger food and dry snacks.
Cashino is famous for offering every type of slot machine you could possibly imagine, with low stakes gaming with pay-outs of between £5 and £500. The mysterious Genie Jackpots is just one of the most popular machines being played, along with the delightful Rainbow Riches.
Source: “Adult Gaming, Amusement and Bingo Centre Gets the Green Light”. The Bolton News. June 09, 2020.
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