More betting and loan shops 'to set up in Coventry'

[dutchman]

Betting shops and payday loan firms could spring up across the city under new planning laws, it has been warned.

New rules introduced today (Thursday) make it easier for owners to convert buildings from one to another.

Government bosses believe the move could boost economic growth and revive empty shops.

But Coun Kevin Maton (pictured right), chairman of the city council's planning committee, labelled the plan 'massively flawed'.

He said betting shops and pay day loan businesses could now be set up in the city centre and across Coventry.

"Until today councils have looked very carefully at local needs and the views of local people before granting applications for changing the use of a building. We can no longer do this.

"We understand the importance of reducing the number of empty buildings in our neighbourhoods and city centres, but this move won’t help independent or quality shops to come here."

Coun Maton, who first criticised the new laws back in September, added disputes between neighbours over planning issues could also rise.

Many home extensions will now go ahead without the need for planning permission.

He said: "These new laws ride roughshod over the rights of local communities to make the right decision for their neighbourhoods, and it's local residents who will feel the impact the most."

[rebbonk]

Even the bookies couldn't make money round here. Our last one closed about 3 years back.

We haven't got any loan shops yet.... perhaps we're too poor for even those?

[dutchman]

They do best in poorer areas. The one in Upper Spon Street has replaced the pub as the centre of social life in Spon End.