Middlesbrough Bookmaker Awaits Decision After Board Meeting Delay

A shop on Linthorpe Road might become a bookies, but it faces one hurdle. The MDC officers were set to approve the plan. This plan allows changing the shop to a betting office, with some external changes as well. Councillors objected, so the board, including Mayor Houchen and Mayor Cooke, will decide.

The meeting was set for February 27 but got postponed. Now, people wait for a decision about the plan. The landlord said All in One shop will move next door from its current location – 55 Linthorpe Road.

BoyleSports wants to open a betting shop there and change the shop’s look. They need approval for signs and changes, including the addition of three AC units and two satellite dishes.

The new bookies would create three jobs and open daily from 8am to 10pm, even on bank holidays. The plan claims it helps the day and night economy because betting shops bring people throughout the day.

The ads might hang over the road of the shop that is between River Island and Select. If approved, the doors would change, with a single door replacing the double doors on the property’s left.

MDC, not the council, decides on this plan, as they handle plans in their area, including Middlehaven and the town center. Linthorpe Road, from Wilson to Borough, is under MDC control.

All three ward councillors oppose another bookies. Councillor Young said it conflicts with the town’s vision for a family-friendly town with a focus on health.

Young mentioned the Live Well Centre nearby, stating that a betting shop harms such “positive” changes. He noted many bookies already exist and hopes MDC backs the council’s aims. Councillors Lewis and Uddin support Young’s view.

The Town Centre Coordinator, Tom Rhind, shares the councillors’ concerns and also objects. He noted gambling’s “negative impact” on some people.

Lichfields argues the plan improves Linthorpe Road and fits well with nearby businesses. They say it enhances existing shops and services and claim a bookies looks like a regular shop.

BoyleSports invests around £300,000 in new shops. Besides three full-time roles, they also offer part-time roles, and construction creates 26 temporary jobs lasting six to eight weeks.

MDC officers advise approving the plan, but a councillor called the plan to the board. MDC says it follows local and national rules and thinks the betting office is “appropriate” with “no adverse impacts.”

The meeting on February 27 was cancelled due to “unforeseen circumstances,” and a new meeting date is unknown.

Umar Hussain is the building’s landlord with approved plans for shops and housing. He said All in One’s lease is temporary, stating they are moving next door with flexible terms.