Gaming centre wins approval despite concerns

A 24-hour adult gaming centre has been approved in Bedford despite objections from the police, a church and councillors.

They feared plans for the venue in a former card shop on Silver Street would increase crime and disorder and expose young people to unnecessary risks.

Future Leisure argued there was no evidence that its existing venues in High Wycombe, Stevenage and Borehamwood had caused harm.

Bedford Borough Council's licensing sub-committee granted the premises licence, subject to conditions aimed at protecting children and vulnerable people.

The committee heard Bedfordshire Police was concerned the operation would place further strain on already stretched policing resources and negatively impact the community.

It said the area around Silver Street was already home to a mix of late-night licensed premises and shops.

St Paul's Church said people already struggling with addiction, impulsivity or financial distress could be harmed or exploited.

Conservative councillor Jane Walker wrote to the committee to object to the application, stating that Bedford town centre "had a history of anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related incidents, [and the venue] would add another anti-social element".

She said its position, opposite what would soon be a dance school, "would bring additional footfall from young people, potentially away from their family's guidance, so exposing them to unnecessary risks".

However, the sub-committee was told that customers would be monitored from the moment they entered the premises and that staff received regular training to identify signs of vulnerability and gambling-related harm.

The company said it planned to have age checks, CCTV, incident logging and a controlled entry system, and two staff would be on duty at all times, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Future Leisure also said it would work with authorities and organisations supporting vulnerable people in the area.

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