by Adam Hughes

TWO new gaming centres will be opened in Clydebank town centre following approval from the licensing board.

Councillors approved a licence for a Family Entertainment and Adult Gaming Centres to open in Clyde Shopping Centre at a meeting last week.

Both centres will have gaming machines and fully-trained staff to ensure age restrictions are being upheld and to monitor individuals usage.

The entertainment centres are being opened by Harry and Elsie Smith of T/A County Amusements who were represented at the licensing board meeting by their son Harris and legal council who fended off objections from Linnvale and Drumry Community Council.

The community council’s representative said: “The are we’re talking about is an area of multiple deprivation. We also have a number of vulnerable children and adults and we’re wondering how these extra units will affect them.

“We’re also questioning the supervision of the unit, the Gambling Commission had 23 per cent of respondents say they don’t pay attention to notices about restrictions in these places and 78 per cent said they feel there are too many opportunities to gamble.

“The other thing we would like to say is that ID verification would be at a low level, there wouldn’t be anyone to say ‘you’re not old enough.’”

Chairman of the board, councillor John Mooney cut through the objection saying: “Over-provision isn’t actually grounds for objection.”

The agent representing applicant County Amusements said: “Both units will be staffed and there will be a presence there as required. That is the first and foremost point I would like to make clear.

“County Amusements are fourth generation family business, they’re very active and forward thinking. None of the responsible parties – fire, police, environmental bodies – have responded with any issues.

“In terms of vulnerable persons, interaction is at the forefront of their minds and there is a clear and categorical no children’s policy in the AGC.”

After making the announcement on social media however, the council decision sparked a fierce reaction.

One commenter said: “Surely an April Fool – as if this is needed. The centre needs to be made more attractive shopping wise.”

Another commented: “Last thing the town needs! Is anyone at the council actually trying to work for the good and improvement of the town? Not one positive comment here, speaks volumes.”

Another added: “Total waste of time and money, WDC what are you thinking about? please explain why you think this will be good for Clydebank? More ways to attract bad habits in the population. Nothing good will come of this.”