Former Barrow Brighthouse to be turned into Boylesports betting shop

Gambling giant BoyleSports will soon be opening a shop in Barrow in place of the former BrightHouse unit in Dalton Road.

Plans to open a BoyleSports in the town were recommended for approval last September despite fears over anti-social behaviour. 

The new shop will take the place of the former BrightHouse store, which has lay empty after it shut in 2020.

A spokesman for the betting company confirmed the shop will be swinging open its doors in a matter of weeks, bringing six new jobs to the area.

Sharon McHugh, head of communications for BoyleSports, said: “BoyleSports will be opening in the coming weeks in in Barrow, Cumbria and we look forward to bringing our punters more choice along with our signature customer service in the new retail outlet. We pride ourselves on ensuring our customers have an enjoyable and comfortable space to bet.”

READ MORE: New Boyle Sports betting shop set for approval in Barrow

According to plans, the betting chain is due to invest more than £200,000 into the new store, creating three full-time and three part-time jobs.

The former Bright House in Dalton Road (Image: Google)

In a statement submitted alongside the plans, BoyleSports said: "This proposal would contribute to the economic growth of Barrow Town Centre.

"On average, £21,000 is invested by Boylesports in the fitting out of each new unit, and Boyle Sports pays £9,500 per unit, per annum, on business rates to the council.

"The proposal would create three full-time and three part-time jobs (including a part-time cleaner.

"In addition, each new Boylesports unit creates 26 temporary construction jobs over the six to eight week construction period.

"The occupation of the unit would also enhance the vibrancy of the town centre, improving occupancy rates and providing a significant enhancement to a prominent and under-utilised premises, which has evidently had challenges in securing a long-term occupier, as demonstrated through the duration of time it was vacant."

The application also states that there is ‘significant research’ that demonstrates that betting shops generate extra footfall in town centres, benefitting surrounding businesses as well as themselves.

One objection was lodged against the plan, raising concern there would be a 'detrimental impact upon the character of the shopping area'.

There was also fears the shop could potentially lead to increased levels of anti-social behaviour.

BoyleSports is the largest independent retail bookmaker in Ireland and is actively expanding its retail and on-line presence in the UK.