A BETTING company has insisted that its bid to open a shop in Barrow town centre would bring "economic benefits" to the town.

Gambling giant Boyle Sports Limited has submitted a change of use application for 154 and 156 Dalton Road with associated signage to allow it to use the premises as a betting shop.

The unit, between McDonalds and Costa, has been empty since it was vacated by hire purchase chain Bright House, and Boyle Sports has said that its proposals would bring jobs and investment to an otherwise empty retail unit.

"This proposal would contribute to the economic growth of Barrow Town Centre," they said in plans submitted to Barrow Council.

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"On average, £21,000 is invested by Boyle Sports in the fitting out of each new unit, and Boyle Sports pays £9,500 per unit, per annum, on business rates to the council.

"The proposal would create three full-time and three part-time jobs (including a part-time cleaner.

"In addition, each new Boyle Sports unit creates 26 temporary construction jobs over the 6-8 week construction period.

"The occupation of the unit would also enhance the vibrancy of the town centre, improving occupancy rates and providing a significant enhancement to a prominent and under-utilised premises, which has evidently had challenges in securing a long-term occupier, as demonstrated through the duration of time it was vacant."

The application also states that there is "significant research" that demonstrates that betting shops generate extra footfall in town centres, benefitting surrounding businesses as well as themselves.

The Well Communities, which supports people with addiction, mental health and other issues, has a hub in Barrow. Senior recovery worker Chris Dixon said about the proposal: "Personally, I think in this day and age, it's the last thing that Barrow needs. 

"Look at the state of Barrow town centre at the minute, it's shocking. 

"The way cost of living's going at the minute - for people like us, it's not going to do us any favours. 

"Addiction comes in all sorts of different forms, and gambling is often part of a bigger problem involving drink or drugs or both.

"While we are here to help people with addiction, we don't want more people through our door, and this is just another way to draw people in."

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