New life set to be breathed into empty shop in Chesterfield town centre

Bet Extra has submitted a planning application to Chesterfield Borough Council in the hope of breathing new life into 57 Low Pavement, which used to be a Thomas Cook store.

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A planning statement submitted to the council on behalf of Bet Extra said: “There has been a significant reduction in the number of betting offices within Chesterfield town centre in recent years.

“There are now only three operating betting shops across the town centre, with two of these operated by the same company (Betfred).

“The proposed change of use would re-introduce an element of choice for customers.”

According to the statement, a William Hill shop at 63 Low Pavement closed in September last year and a Ladbrokes shop at 39 Low Pavement shut in May last year.

The statement added: “The application site has been vacant for over six months and has been marketed for retail use.

“No interest in the continued retail use of the site has been forthcoming, most likely due to continued lack of demand in this sector.

“The proposed development would result in some job creation (the equivalent of 4.5 full-time posts) and would allow for investment into a local, independent business.

“These factors should be weighed in favour of the scheme.

“The proposal would result in the re-use of a Grade II-listed building which is encouraged by policy.

“Indeed the proposal would breathe new life into a vacant unit which presently detracts from the sense of vitality in the area.”

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