Will new bookies be a 'non-runner?'

The Sentinel can reveal that bookmaking chain SP Graham have put forward an application to turn a former take-away in the Bovally area of the town into a betting office. The application has been officially lodged with the Planning Service but has yet to come before Limavady Borough Council. If plans go ahead the bookies would be situated just yards from a youth club and a short distant from a church. Businesses and residents in the immediate area have been notified by letter of the proposal and have been invited to make objections. UUC Councillor Leslie Cubitt says he has already received complaints from concerned residents.

"I received a letter from a very concerned elderly resident on Monday. People just don't want another bookmakers in the town, especially on their doorstep. Everyone I have been speaking to is totally against it."

"It is totally unacceptable to have this type of establishment in close proximity to areas where young people congregate or near a place or worship."

Representatives from Bovally Community Association who run the area's youth club, say another bookmaking office would only bring "temptation" to those in the town already struggling with bills.

One concerned community worker told the Sentinel: "Limavady is an unemployment blackspot and has suffered particularly badly because of the economic downturn. The last thing that local people need is an added temptation to go in and spend whatever little cash they have. There is just no need for it."

"There certainly will be a large number or objections. There are already two bookies in the centre of the town as it is, why would we need more?"

Limavady UUP Councillor Jack Rankin says he is greatly concerned about the bookmakers proposed location.

"80 per cent of the people in Limavady live in and around this area and it's location is close to quite a deprived area. It's totally unsuitable and the reaction I have been getting is that there is just no need for it. We have two bookmakers in the town and really they are enough."

Despite several phonecalls no one was available for comment from Sean Graham Bookmakers.