Betting shop wins appeal against Lewisham Council

A fifth betting shop is set to open in Catford after the national Planning Inspectorate overturned Lewisham Council's refusal of the application. The decision was made on appeal, based on the Gambling Act's 'aim to permit' rule, which limits local authorities' power to block such venues.

The opening of Merkur Slots in Rushey Green, a prominent corner building, has drawn criticism from local representatives. Councillor Daniel Dream expressed disappointment, stating that the decision should not hinge on an empty building or a gambling centre. He described the building as a beautiful corner site that formerly housed a bank and argued that local authorities need genuine power to make decisions that are upheld.

Concerns over Catford's Future

Kasia Blackwell, owner of Yoga House, believes Catford has significant potential but requires more independent shops and improved safety to become a destination. She noted that the area is not currently a draw for shoppers and that another betting shop will not contribute to its regeneration. Blackwell suggested that incentives for independent businesses and a VAT reduction could help local enterprises thrive.

Traders and residents have expressed frustration with the slow pace of regeneration in Catford. Salih Mehmet, a watchmaker who has operated in the Catford Centre for 40 years, recalled it being a thriving shopping centre but now describes it as having gone 'downhill rapidly'. He believes that without addressing the general state of the area and its residents, regeneration efforts will be unsuccessful.

Calls for Greater Control

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated plans to grant councils more authority over the establishment of vape and gambling centres by proposing to scrap the 'aim to permit' rule. This proposed change has been welcomed by Lewisham Council, which is urging the government to provide clear powers for authorities to resist gambling sites in areas already saturated with them.

The issue of safety in Catford has also been raised, with reports of customers at Yoga House feeling threatened or approached by individuals loitering in the streets after dark. This concern follows a week in October last year when four stabbings occurred in Catford, including the death of 27-year-old Sanchini Thompson. The community also experienced further incidents in Mountsfield Park and Canadian Avenue, concluding with a 20-year-old man being stabbed in the Catford Centre.

Councillor Dream suggested that Lewisham Council could consider lowering business rates for small businesses in Catford to attract more people to the area, shifting focus from rental income to increasing footfall. He described the Catford Centre as a remarkable, overlooked place with the potential to be a well-loved municipal space if the right businesses were drawn in.

Despite the challenges, the success of Yoga House and its expansion into Studio Strength in July last year is seen as a positive development. Kasia Blackwell believes that with more independent shops and new offerings, Catford could become more attractive to visitors and residents alike, creating a virtuous cycle for local businesses.

What Happens Next

Prime Minister Andy Burnham's proposed changes to the Gambling Act are expected to be further developed, potentially giving councils like Lewisham more power to influence decisions on future betting shop applications. The reopening of the Catford Centre cinema in autumn this year, under new leaseholders Castle in Hackney, may also contribute to increased footfall and regeneration efforts.