A PETITION has been launched by campaigners who say betting shops are taking over Tilehurst.

Labour’s Reading West parliamentary candidate Victoria Groulef has set up a petition in response to the soaring number of betting shops in the town and is calling on the Government to give people the right to have their say on the shape of their high street.

Mrs Groulef said: “The Government’s rules mean many businesses do not have to apply for permission to convert a building for a new business or residential use.

“There is nothing to stop payday lenders, betting shops, fast food restaurants and other businesses sprawling along the high streets and means councils and communities don’t get a say in the future of their town centres.”

There are now six betting shops in Tilehurst – Coral bookies in Overdown Road, School Road and Norcot Road, Taylor’s Racing Service and Betfred in Meadway Precinct, and Premier Racing in School Road.

Reading Borough Council is one of 63 local authorities demanding the Government changes the planning law to stop the spread of betting shops.

Mrs Groulef added: “Nationally there are 20% more payday loan shops than a year ago and 3.3% more betting shops. These are taking the place of independent retailers, clothes shops and health food shops.

“I want to see real powers given to people in places like Tilehurst, to stand up for their high street and ensure that it is somewhere that they and their neighbours want to shop and spend time.”

To sign the petition visit http://www.bestforreadingwest.co.uk/stop_payday_lenders_and_betting_shops_taking_over