Judge blocks application for third Limavady bookmakers
A judge has blocked the opening of a third bookmakers in Limavady.
Sean Graham had proposed to open a store in the Bovally area. The town already has two bookmakers, both owned by James Desmond Higgins.
Ladbrokes, who do not have a store in the town objected against the application. Mr Higgins failed to object against within the time limit.
Judge Piers Grant declined the application on the grounds of a lack of demand.
In his judgement Judge Grant said, in line with statutory guidelines: "Courts should grant no more than the minimum number of licences within a locality to meet the demand from punters for bookmaking services within the locality."
Mr Higgins, whose objections were ruled inadmissible, owns stores on Catherine Street and Linenhall Street.
Judge Grant, who had visited the two existing bookmakers on weekday afternoons for research said he felt "satisfied that the existing premises alone provide more than adequate facilities to meet bookmaking demand within the Limavady locality."