Sefton Council has green lit plans for a new AGC in Southport after calculating it would boost footfall and support the town centre economy – taking a markedly different approach to anti-gambling councils campaigning for greater powers to block new venues
Sefton Council has approved plans to convert a former tobacconist into an adult gaming centre, concluding the development will boost the local economy by increasing footfall, supporting neighbouring businesses and bringing a long-vacant premises back into productive use.
The former Kevin Clark Tobacconist on Lord Street, which has stood empty since closing in 2023, will now be converted by Grand Reels UK Ltd after councillors granted planning permission. The venue will operate daily between 8am and 11pm.
Rather than succumbing to the same prohibitionist rhetoric that holds back many high streets across Britain, Sefton Council placed significant weight on the benefits of bringing an empty unit back into use.
A planning report noted the premises had been marketed for some time without attracting another retailer and highlighted wider vacancies along Lord Street following the loss of major stores such as Debenhams. It concluded that the new use would increase footfall throughout the day and evening, with customers also likely to visit other nearby businesses, helping to support the vitality and viability of Southport town centre.
Sefton Council’s approach contrasts with that of many local authorities across the country, with Brent Council the most recent power to throw its weight behind a campaign to scrap “Aim to Permit”. Put in place during the Gambling Act 2005, this principle only exists to ensure the Gambling Commission is the sole regulator of the industry – so certainly not to give operators an easy ride.
It was also intended to allow councils to focus on their main duty; improving their local area. Sefton Council’s decision will do just that, with Grand Reels UK promising to deliver jobs, footfall, and a refreshed retail unit to Southport high street.
Originally published on Coinslot on July 20, 2026. Republished with permission.