24-hour gambling venue greenlit at abandoned Leeds city centre cafe

The plans have been approved despite residents' fears

A disused city centre property is set to be transformed into a round-the-clock gambling establishment despite concerns raised by neighbouring businesses.

Gaming company Noble Corp Ltd applied for planning permission to occupy a former café on Vicar Lane. Leeds City Council granted approval for the change of use of Swissly Cafe near Kirkgate Market and the Corn Exchange.

A council planning officer's report stated: "The Adult Gaming Centre (ACG) would operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"The proposed internal layout includes gaming machines, a cash desk, storage and toilet facilities."

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The council confirmed that objections were submitted by planning consultants acting on behalf of two businesses whose names were not disclosed. One stated: "There is already a concentration of gambling-type uses in the surrounding area and a further unit would lead to over-concentration."

The council indicated that crime prevention strategies should be established, incorporating CCTV, alarm systems and measures to tackle anti-social behaviour. The planning report noted: "Bringing a vacant unit back into active use is welcomed, as this can increase legitimate activity and support natural surveillance within the area."

The new ACG will be situated near existing betting premises including Betfred, Admiral Casino and William Hill. A report by legal firm Woods Whur indicated that such venues were not typically linked with crime or anti-social behaviour. The statement read: "The applicant is an experienced operator, with other AGC premises including 24/7 venues, and all operate without complaints of noise, anti-social behaviour, crime or other nuisance."

A premises licence would also be required for the new establishment, which is expected to generate six full-time positions. Noble Corp currently runs licensed venues in Bolton, Durham, South Shields, Wigan and Stockton-on-Tees.

The applicant obtained a 10-year lease on the Leeds site and intended to invest approximately £150,000. The Woods Whur report stated: "This investment demonstrates a long-term commitment to the site which will support the economic role of the city centre and create an added leisure use, contributing positively to the vibrancy and vitality of Leeds city centre."