AN application to open a betting shop in a market town high street has sparked objections from local traders and residents.

James Darroch, of bookmakers Coral Northern Limited, submitted the application for a betting licence on March 4.

If successful, the company hopes to run what will be the fourth betting shop in Northallerton, in the premises formerly leased by Lloyds Bank.

The company's new-style "Silver Design" shop will have 12 television screens, amusement games with prizes, vending machines and will be fully air conditioned.

Coral, which has about 35 betting shops in the North-East, said it regarded Northallerton as an attractive and vibrant market town.

"We see an opportunity to offer modern, comfortable and creative betting services in this location," said a Coral spokeswoman.

The application will be considered by the Betting Licensing Committee of Northallerton and Richmond, at Richmond Magistrates' Court, on April 11. Residents had until yesterday to lodge complaints. Three formal objections to the application have been made to the committee, but the town's Mayor, Councillor Jack Dobson, said many more people had complained to him.

Roger Cole, manager of Ottakers bookstore in Northallerton, is against another betting shop opening in such a prominent position.

"If that is the best we can do to fill one of the major retail premises in the highstreet then it is a sad day," he said.

Chairman of the town's chamber of trade, Jim Turnball, said if the betting shop were to come to Northallerton it would be a waste of a nice building.

"We cannot control who goes into the property, but it would be nice to see a shop that would be of more benefit to the highstreet and enhance its appearance," he said.

Coral does not need to apply for planning permission or listed building consent to Hambleton District Council before submitting the application to the committee.

Maurice Cann, the council's head of development services, said: "The company does not need planning permission because the betting shop is in the same class of use as a bank."