A slot machine company has withdrawn their application for a new premises in Sheffield following opposition from people in the area.
Merkur Casino made the application on December 18 but decided to withdraw it on Wednesday.
They planned to open the venue on Sheffield City Centre High Street, with it being listed as a ‘Bingo Premises’, which some people found to be misleading.
Jackie Wilson, who opposed the application, said: “Merkur operate 24 hour adult gaming centres, which cram as many high stake slot machines in as possible.”
She added: “They apply for their licence under the pretence of a bingo facility, conjuring the image of a social place where people go for fun.
“The reality is row after row of slot machines, with desperate, isolated people playing every penny they have.”
The charity ‘Gambling With Lives’, which provides support for those affected by gambling disorders, were amongst those who were challenging the licence application.
The charity said the withdrawal is ‘great news for Sheffield’ on social media.
On a Reddit post discussing the issue, user WanderingWhat said: “As a psychiatric nurse it’s absolutely heart-breaking seeing so many of my patients with gambling addictions.
Gambling addiction is a mental health problem and often goes hand in hand with other mental health problems and addictions.”
They added: “It’s shameful that these people are exploiting those who are unwell whilst we’re sorting out food bank referrals etc. An addiction is not a choice. Nobody would want to live like that.”
The venue was set to be open 7am to 2am every day which was a concern for the council and those in the area.
Another Merkur Casino in Spalding, Lincolnshire, tried to extend their opening hours to 24 hours in September 2023 but were denied, with Police saying they thought doing so would lead to additional crime and anti-social behaviour.
A similar proposal was made for a new gambling venue on Fargate in August last year which was rejected by councillors, with Councillor Douglas Johnson stating that opening the store would have been a ‘step backwards’ for the region.
The gambling company already own a store in Rotherham, which is open 9am until 6am everyday.
On their website, Merkur Casino encourage people to gamble responsibly and seek help if they need it from BeGambleAware.
Shefnews asked Merkur for comment on their application withdrawal, but did not receive a response.