Lincolnshire Police say that extending the opening hours for Merkur Slots in Spalding will increase crime and anti-social behavior

Extending the opening hours of an ‘adult gaming centre’ in Spalding will have a negative impact on crime and anti-social behaviour, according to police.

Officers have raised their concerns about plans to let Merkur Slots trade 24/7 in Hall Place – but stopped short of formally objecting to the planning application.

A submission from John Manuel, Force Designing Out Crime Officer (DOCO), to South Holland District Council stated: “We have not formally objected although we feel strongly that the requested additional opening hours would have a detrimental impact on ASB and crime as reflected at the Boston Casino.”

The police’s statement lists off a number of incidents at the Boston branch of Merkur, which contains casino-style gambling machines.

It asks for the impact of these to be taken into consideration, as they: “Are likely to be repeated and place an increasing demand on police services and an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour at and around that location.”

The current Spalding opening hours are 7am to midnight Mondays to Saturdays and 10am to midnight on Sundays.

Crimes outside of these hours in Boston include issues with violent and drunk men, people refusing to leave the store and a fight between two men over winnings after a visit to the casino.

Existing incidents in Spalding include a man brandishing a BB gun and men being aggressive and abusive.

After listing incidents, it said: “The above breakdown of reported incidents is only indicative and reflect a range and type of incidents to be expected should the Spalding Casino be granted additional and extended opening hours.”

Merkur was refused planning permission to open in the former Dorothy Perkins shop by the district council – but this decision was overturned by the Planning Inspectorate.

District councillor Gary Taylor has also made a submission to the planning department. He said: “I strongly object to this application. SHDC refused the original application and this additional application should also be refused.”

MP Sir John Hayes has urged the council to take a ‘strong line’ – while former councillor Steve Timewell has been a prominent voice against the idea.

Despite passing the plans, the inspector recommended ‘condition three’ which restricted permission to the opening hours.

A letter from Merkur to the council stated: “Due to there being robust evidence justifying 24-hour opening at this location, they wish to remove condition three, thereby allowing 24-hour operation daily.

“The amendment sought will enable Merkur Slots’ key customer base to benefit from the offer and service provided by the AGC. The evening/late customer base is predominantly shift workers looking to relax after evening shifts.”

What do you think? Should Merkur be allowed to extend its hours? Email andrew.brookes@iliffepublishing.co.uk or post your comments below