I too share concerns of residents and many others, such as the Chamber of Commerce, regarding the appeal over the application for a change of use for former shop, DS Music, to become an adult gaming centre.

The Future Generations Act lays down principles for well-being goals: the goal of a More Equal Wales and the goal of a Wales of more Cohesive Communities. Also the Commissioner has laid down that public bodies must 'Reduce inequalities through planning' under the Placemaking Charter.

The old music shop on Monnow St, Monmouth.
The old music shop on Monnow St, Monmouth. (Tindle)

'This application would not reduce inequalities - it would do exactly the opposite. At a time when so many households are struggling with the cost of living crisis it would be so wrong to encourage further opportunities to lose money and increase poverty through gambling. Residents have made it very clear to me that they don't want the shop to become a gambling centre.

I have written to those conducting the appeal to reiterate the communities' concerns. Not only would approval for this gambling facility go against the Future Generations Act requirements, but also another gambling facility in the ward would add to the harm that gambling causes to individuals, families and local communities. The venue is sited in very close proximity to schools and in the heart of a conservation area.

Catherine Fookes, candidate for the new county council ward for Monmouth Town