A DECISION to stop an eighth betting shop opening on Deptford’s high street over crime fears has given businesses renewed hope, campaigners say.

Betfred’s original application to change the use of the former Halifax branch was rejected by Lewisham planning officers back in March.

It followed an online campaign and representations from many businesses in the area calling for an end to the proliferation of bookies replacing shops, pubs and other services. Betfred would have been the area’s 11th.

The betting company had appealed that decision but, though in a decision published last week inspector David Smith said there could be a change of use, he ruled out the building being used as a bookmakers, highlighting fears about rising crime.

Gus Sidhu from SightCentre, who helped with the campaign, said: “I’m glad Lewisham have found a minute backbone to at least challenge something.

“It beggars belief that if you’ve got 10 of one thing you can find space for an 11th to compete.

“We’ve seen the volume of people here go down over the last few years since the job centre closed. People aren’t going to come here just for poundshops and bookmakers.”

He added: “Since the campaign we’re all more on the ball than we were previously. We know how to hit this now, rather than lie down and take it.”

The inspector considered complaints from shopkeepers, residents and police about allegations of intimidation, drinking, drug taking and begging caused by betting shops.

In his report Mr Smith said: “It would be likely to give rise to anti-social behaviour and disturbance to local residents and users of the town centre. There is also a risk of an increase in crime.”

A spokesman for Betfred, which has already secured a licence for the venue, refused to comment on what the company would do now.

He said: “We’re obviously very, very disappointed because Betfred is very different to other bookmakers.”

News Shopper: Doug Elsley, landlord at the John Evelyn, with wife Brenda

“Betting shops destroy communities.”

Doug Elsley’s pub the John Evelyn closed and was turned into a betting shop last year.

The 66-year-old said: “It’s a good decision but, as I’ve said before, it’s too little too late.

“This is good news for Deptford High Street though because, to be honest, I’m surprised it’s got a community left after the way they’ve been treated.

He added: “Betting shops destroy communities. There’s only so many people who want to have a bet and only so much money to spend.

“The number that have been allowed are an absolute disgrace.”

“A breakthrough.”

Lewisham Deptford MP Joan Ruddock has been backing a change in the law to allow councils to cap the number of bookies in an area.

She said: “It’s great news and a great tribute to all the local people who campaigned.

Ms Ruddock added: “I hope this will be a breakthrough which will help to prevent future developments of this kind.

“It’s certainly going to be something that I’ll be adding to the case that I’ve already made to the review of the present law.”