A FORMER newsagents could become a bookmaker if planning permission for a change of use is granted by a council.

Betting company Coral Racing Ltd has applied to Darlington Borough Council to take over the vacant shop previously occupied by the Finlays newsagent next to Asda, in Whinbush Way, in the Whinfield area of town.

The company must be granted a change of use from a retail premises to a licensed betting office under planning laws if it is to operate from the site.

Planning permission has also been requested for changes to the frontage of the shop, including illuminated signs and a change to the layout.

In a planning statement, an agent for Coral notes that the council’s planning policy supports moves to diversify the retail offer in the area, particularly smaller businesses to complement and support the supermarket.

The statement adds: “Coral Racing operate a successful and popular betting shop offer which would increase the vitality and viability of Whinfield Shopping Centre.

“The proposed development would contribute towards footfall and linked trips to the centre, including Asda, thus supporting the shopping centre’s role for food shopping.”

The agent has argued that the extensive opening hours at the Asda supermarket and its “ubiquitous retail offer” reduces the scope and demand for other retail outlets in the surrounding area.

It added: “There are limited opportunities for a retail competitor to operate a competitive and viable operation adjacent to Asda.”

There are four Coral betting shops already operating in Darlington, including two in the town centre, one in Cockerton and one in St John’s Place, off Neasham Road.

Summing up its statement to the council, the agent for Coral said: “The proposed development has been shown to have the potential to deliver sustainable development with significant economic, social and environmental benefits to Whinfield Shopping Centre and the wider area in concurrence with Darlington Borough Council’s aspirations for the area.”

The application is in the early stages and will be subject to comments by interested parties before a decision on the change of use is made by council officials or the planning committee.