A FORMER greengrocers in Vicars Cross could be turned into a betting shop.

Corbett Bookmakers Ltd has applied to Cheshire West and Chester Council for a betting licence to open up a store at Green Lane shopping precinct.

The bookmakers would be based at the old Francis Thomas greengrocer, which closed back in February.

The public has until Wednesday, October 20, to have their say over the plan.

People who live sufficiently close to the premises or whose business interests may be affected are invited to come forward with their views.

Alternatively, a representative on behalf of someone affected can make representation to the council.

The application will be discussed at the next meeting of Great Boughton Parish Council on Monday.

Members will be asked for their response to the plan.

Chairman Sue Proctor is opposed to having a bookmakers at the precinct.

She said: “My personal view is that I would like to retain retail use so people can buy what they want on a regular basis.

“There is a lot of people living in Vicars Cross who have used those shops well over the years.”

Flintshire-based Corbett Bookmakers is a family owned company which was established in 1947.

It has more than 50 betting offices situated between Aberystwyth and York, as well as prominent betting pitches on racecourses throughout the UK, including Royal Ascot and Cheltenham.

The Chronicle made contact with Corbett Bookmakers on Tuesday but the company has yet to respond.