I'm not sure if anyone has already posted about this, but I undestand that the former Burger King (junction of Turnpike Lane and Wood Green High Road) is being turned into yet another betting shop. Does anyone know anything about it?
Permalink Reply by Kate on September 27, 2010 at 11:08
Yes, that's right. I wrote to David Lammy about this but the decision had already been made. It's dreadful really as there are already four betting shops in that short stretch and it's in such a prominent position on the high street.
IDK anything but the last thing this area needs is ANOTHER betting shop, there are 2 at the crossroads by my house on the ladder already! anyone feel like a campaign?
I've been deeply saddened, after my many months of discussion and negotiation with Betfred, to find that the company have failed in their commitment to set up shop at 5 Wightman Road.
While the current planning application (HGY/2010/1655) is for 'change of use from sui generis (dry cleaners) to A3 (cafe/delicatessen)', I have long argued for a more generous interpretation allowing change from sui generis to A2, viz Impress Dry Cleaning becoming a Betfred Express Laundry outlet.
I shall accordingly be opposing this application, on the grounds a. of cafe/restaurant/foodie clustering; b. of Wightman residents' deprivation of betting rights; c. of fitting location for this Mediterranean Charity next to our faux-Spanish Vineyard.
Please join our Campaign on behalf of Wightman Road residents and all migrant City types who'd relish a flutter more than a smoothie.
Perfectly fair point that some people may want to use a betting shop but I've got 2 on my street corner, within 15 metres of each other. I feel Green Lanes needs another betting shop like it needs another kebab restaurant! It's space that could be used by a locally-owned business which keeps money in the community.
OAE: Don't fret too much, if you've missed out this time, I'm sure there are more in the pipeline. And don't blame New Labour if there isn't yet a bookies on every single corner: they did there best with their Gambling Act (2005). A little patience.