Bookmakers chain Paddy Power has won an appeal to open another betting shop - despite opposition from Haringey Council.

On Friday January 30 a district judge overturned Haringey Borough Council’s decision to refuse a licence for a Paddy Power betting shop on the site of the old Lordship Pub in Lordship Lane, Wood Green.

During the hearing at Highbury Magistrates court Judge Williams ruled that although there was some anti-social behaviour in the area it was not possible to draw a direct link between that activity and gambling.

But she did impose conditions on the venue including security arrangements and measures against anti-social and drunken behaviour.

Haringey Council was disappointed with the decision. Leader Councillor Claire Kober said: “We are of course disappointed by the decision to allow Paddy Power’s appeal.

“We have long said that, while encouraging economic growth is vital, it should not come at the expense of local people getting the chance to have their say.

“We will continue to stand up for our residents and campaign against developments which are unsuitable for our high streets.”

In April last year Haringey Council’s licensing sub-committee refused Paddy Power’s application for a new store because it felt that there was evidence betting shops nearby were attracting crime and anti-social behaviour and the new site would experience a similar problem.

A statement from Paddy Power said: “We are pleased to have been granted a licence for our new shop on Lordship Lane.

“Opening a betting shop is a major local investment averaging around £280,000 and creating on average five new local jobs.

“At a time when the UK high street is facing unprecedented challenges we believe we can make a positive contribution to the communities we operate in.”

Haringey Council has previously called for more powers to refuse applications when there are concerns in the community. It backed a consultation by the Department for Communities and Local Government last year over proposals to give communities more of a say on whether betting shops open.