SPORTS betting machines are to be installed at a Northwich casino.

Admiral Casino on Witton Street has been granted planning permission to install four new machines.

This decision comes despite concerns raised by three competitors who operate in the town.

Their comments are all based on the fact Luxury Leisure (Admiral’s parent company) withdrew similar plans in Blackburn and Southampton after receiving 'substantive evidence' to say such a development would require a change of use application.

An objection submitted on behalf of Betfred read: “As one of the country's leading betting shop business owners, Betfred is understandably concerned at this applicant's approach to the planning regime.

“Arguably the grant of this application would, in our client's view, create a very dangerous precedent.

“It would give this applicant the 'green light' for the sub-division of their many other premises along similar lines, and the consequent creation of literally hundreds, if not thousands, of new betting shops up and down the country; each one offering sports betting terminals.

“In all respects, no evidence has been presented that would lead to any other decision but to refuse planning permission for this proposal.”

The initial planning statement submitted by RR Planning, on behalf of Luxury Leisure, argued that a change of use was unnecessary as the primary use would not change.

It read: “The primary purpose of customers visiting the premises, i.e. to gamble or bet within a gambling premises does not change.

“Whilst betting shops and adult gaming centres are separate sui generis uses, they share similar characteristics.”

Despite this, the application was amended to reflect that this development would result in a change of use, becoming a mixed use adult gaming/sports betting.

On February 19, 2024, Cheshire West and Chester Council planning officers approved the plans.

In a report recommending the decision, case officer Edward Shepherd said: “The proposal would retain the existing adult arcade use, with part of the unit used as a sports betting area.

“There would be no loss of retail use and the proposal would be situated within a highly sustainable location with no unacceptable highway safety impacts.

“Overall the proposal is considered to be acceptable in accordance with all material considerations and policies and therefore recommended for approval.”