A GOVERNMENT planning inspector will determine if bookmakers William Hill can open an office in Devizes town centre.

William Hill has appealed against the refusal of planning permission by Kennet District Council.

William Hill wants to open a bookmakers in the former Pound and 50p shop in The Brittox which has been standing empty for more than a year.

Kennet turned down the planning application because the empty shop is a prime retail site. Planning officers did not consider a betting office a suitable change of use for the site as it would not make a positive contribution to the character of the conservation area.

Objections were received by Kennet from the town council and Devizes Chamber of Commerce.

Anyone who wants to make comments about the application should write (sending three copies) to the Planning Inspectorate, Department of the Environment, Room 3/01 Kite Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN quoting reference number APP/E3905/A/04/1158533.