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UK
Casino Times
> Casino
News
27 May 2005
Site Visit Before UK Casino
Decision
Controversial
plans to open a UK casino in Oldbury town centre have been
put on hold for a site visit by councillors, after running
into opposition from more than 200 residents.
The plan by the Rank Group
Gaming Division to open a casino at the Mecca Social Club in
Halesowen Street has been deferred by Sandwell
councillors.
A 239-signature petition
against the proposals and three individual letters of
objection from people in the Tipperary Walk and Halesowen
Street area had been received.
But planning officer Tony
Rice pointed out that many of the objectors lived a distance
away from the site.
Officers recommended the
planning committee to approve the plan but Great Bridge ward
Councillor Derek Rowley said he wanted members to look at
the site before making a final decision.
It was a "sensitive
decision" and he thought councillors should visit the site
before finalising any decision on the application, so a
visit will now be held next month.
Mr Rice said residents
were complaining about potential problems with heavy
traffic, parking and an increase in litter and
noise.
They were also concerned
about reduced quality of life for nearby residents and an
increase in the risk of anti-social or criminal
behaviour.
Between 70 and 80 full and
part-time jobs would be created if the business got the
green light.
The casino would contain a
gaming area, a bar-lounge and restaurant. The premises would
be open between 2pm in the afternoon and 6am the following
morning.
Mr Rice said the company
was planning improvements to the design of the building,
improved parking arrangements and pedestrian
routes.
He added that the police
said they had no concerns and had welcomed the CCTV camera
system to be installed on the site.
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Group
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