A FIFTH betting shop is set to open in Redhill, prompting fears that the bookies are taking over.
William Hill is hoping to open up a shop in Station Road in the next few weeks – providing Reigate and Banstead Borough Council issues the bookmakers a licence.
But a number of residents have voiced concerns over the plans via the online application form.
They are worried Redhill is lacking in diversity and say another betting shop – there are already four in the town centre, three owned by Coral – will have a detrimental effect on Redhill's image.
Some also noted concern that having another shop with large amounts of money on site could attract a criminal element and hinder the safety of the town.
Brian Smith, 60, from Redhill, said: "It's definitely one too many isn't it? I would prefer to see some designer shops. I think Redhill could do with going upmarket a bit."
Dave Morton, 26, works at Sainsbury's and is from Redhill. He said: "The last thing we need is another betting shop. There's definitely too many, there are four here already."
Steve Aylin-White, crime reduction and crime prevention design advisor at Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, has also commented on the plans. He says he doesn't have a problem with another betting shop opening in the town but added he hoped the applicants would consult on security.
The former tenants of the Station Road building, Team One Recruitment, are relocating to offices above Greggs. A Team One spokesman said: "That will be five bookmakers in a small town; it gives one the wrong message that Redhill is down and out, which it isn't. It seems there's a domination of pubs and bookies."
A spokesman for William Hill said: "We're one of the few companies that appears to be willing to open shops on the high street. There doesn't appear to be a queue of people looking to open up different types of shop. We bring enjoyment and facilities those who like a flutter like to have.
"These people who don't wish to see a betting shop on the high street aren't obliged to go in."
