Controversial casino plans withdrawn

ACONTROVERSIAL planning application for a casino in the East End has been withdrawn. Permission to turn the former TSB on Duke Street in Dennistoun into an adult gaming centre had been lodged with Glasgow City Council in August by Cashino Gaming Ltd for a Merkur Slots branch. Council bosses confirmed yesterday that papers had been withdrawn. The reasons for the U-turn are unclear and company bosses are remaining tight-lipped on the change of heart.

It attracted more than 30 objections from members of the local community as well as elected representatives Paul Sweeney MSP, and councillors Allan Casey, Jennifer Layden, Greg Hepburn, Elaine McDougall and Cecilia O’Lone.

Local resident Deborah Kennedy said an adult gaming centre would “exploit vulnerable people with gambling addictions”. She added: “These types of businesses create very few jobs, become meeting points for criminal activity and lead to or exacerbate severe mental health issues and financial concerns. A business that brings a valuable service, prosperity or joy to the neighbourhood is what is needed. An adult gaming centre provides neither.”

Sweeney, whose mother was the former manager of the TSB, welcomed the company’s U-turn. He said: “I’m delighted that the planning application to convert the former TSB bank on Duke Street into an adult gaming centre has now been withdrawn, after extensive objections from the public and their local elected representatives.

“I hope this sends a clear message that Glaswegians won’t tolerate this anymore. We need a new use for this building that adds wealth to the local community, rather than extracts it.”

Planning permission to build a restaurant on the spot was turned down earlier this year.

Merkur Slots said it would “engage with the review process” but would not comment further until that process had been agreed.

Glasgow City Council was approached for comment.