GAMBLERS in Gravesend have been told their sporting bets will not be taken in the town centre.

With some admitting they have never set foot in a betting shop, Gravesham councillors rejected two new applications for bookmakers in New Road, in a bid to protect the "retail space".

Claiming he did not know "one end of a horse from another", Councillor John Loughlin said: "Betting shops should be tucked away. If people want to gamble they will find a place to go.

"They are of no benefit to the local community. I've nothing against them but this would be totally unacceptable in our shopping centre."

One Gravesend bookie told the News Shopper he was "amazed" to hear councillors took this view.

Owner of Footscray Racing, Old Road West, Ken Rudkin said: "I can't see what they have against bookmakers. They are more like social clubs these days.

"Everyone knows each other and people come here to meet friends. We are like a big family. We're actually an asset to the town centre."

Council officers had advised councillors on the regulatory board to reject the first application because it would "result in a loss of a retail unit".

But the second, just doors away, had been recommended for permission.

The board unanimously vetoed both.

Casting her vote, Councillor Elizabeth Colley complained: "I think it is appalling. It makes the prospect of another pound shop sound wonderfully attractive."

Gravesham's policy for the town centre allows for a certain amount of non-retail outlets provided they are "not excessive" but concedes a "balance should be maintained".

At the end of October, councillors gave the go-ahead for an innovative health advice centre in New Road despite objections from retailers.

At the time, an officer noted: "I am not persuaded the threat to the shopping function of the town centre is severe."

December 4, 2001 11:39

Richard Simcox