John Battle MP (Lab, Leeds West) has joined hundreds of local residents in opposing the proposed expansion of an Armley bookmakers.
 
The proposed relocation of Done Bookmakers from a single to a double-fronted shop on Armley Town Street, taking over the former Todd's Butchers, has caused controversy locally. More than 300 residents have signed a petition opposing the move.

Mr Battle said: “My postbag has been heaving with letters from concerned residents over this. People have been saying to me that they want to see something other than a bookies take over the Todd’s Butchers shop.

“I share their concerns over the proposal. It is not an appropriate development for Armley Town Street and in my view there is sufficient provision for Done Bookmakers without them having to take over a double-fronted shop.”

Mr Battle has written to formally object to the plan, before it is considered by Leeds magistrates tomorrow (20 February).
He added: “The Todd’s Butchers site is in a prime location on Armley Town Street and could be ideally placed for some sort of community use or for a food outlet – like it was when it was still Todd’s Butchers. In any case, it should be something that can be used by everyone.

“We’re in the process of trying to build up Armley Town Street, and the council have plans to regenerate the area, so I want the Todd’s Butchers site to put to positive use and to contribute to that process.”

©John Battle MP 19 February 2007