Furious locals in Whitby are fighting to prevent their seaside town from becoming the “Las Vegas of the East Coast”.
The battle centres on controversial plans to convert the town’s last remaining high street bank into a 24-hour casino. More than 500 objections were lodged against the proposal.
The Halifax branch in the town’s historic centre is set to close in mid-May. Company Luxury Leisure revealed plans to replace it with an “adult gaming centre”.
Town hall officials had initially recommended the scheme be approved, arguing a “soon to be vacant unit would remain in use in a prominent location”.
Furious locals in Whitby are fighting to prevent their seaside town from becoming the “Las Vegas of the East Coast”
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Councillors rejected the scheme at a planning meeting on Thursday.
However, concerns remain as Luxury Leisure may appeal the decision within 12 weeks.
The company has vowed to invest £500,000 into the project.
Local MP Alison Hume raised the issue in Parliament, highlighting that the closure would leave Whitby without any bank branches.
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Alan Landers, who runs a butcher’s shop opposite the site, told the Daily Mail: “There’ll be train-loads coming down from Middlesbrough, drinking all night and ending up in the casino until the morning.”
Julie Richardson, 72, expressed concern: “Whitby is a place for families, for heritage, for history. The last thing we need is a 24-hour gambling den encouraging people to throw away their money.”
Sam Dryden, who runs an ice cream shop, expressed worry that families would no longer some to the town.
At the planning meeting, Cllr Derek Bastiman warned that Whitby would become the “Las Vegas of the East Coast” if the move were to be approved.
The meeting saw 523 objections and just six supporters.
Cllr Janet Jefferson added: “Once you open the floodgates, that will be that. Whitby is unique and we should maintain that.”
Picturesque Whitby is famed for its cobbled streets, quaint shops and coastal charm. The North Yorkshire fishing town has deep historical significance.
The Halifax branch in the town’s historic centre is set to close in mid-May
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Bram Stoker found inspiration for his horror novel Dracula during a stay in 1890.
The town’s iconic 199 steps leading up to the abbey also feature in the classic tale.
Locals fear the potential appeal could still threaten Whitby’s traditional character, with many believing the town is already losing its identity to tourism and second homes.