EVESHAM Town Council objected to plans to change a high street store into a betting shop saying the area needs more retail units.

The town Mayor councillor Mark Goodge said there had been a lot of opposition from traders concerned on the impact the change of the shop, formerly a Block Busters, could have on their businesses.

He said: "They feel it will obviously impact other traders in the high streets to change it into a betting shop. It will take away from that area."

There were also concerns the area of the high street, which is designated for A1 or shops, was becoming a place for businesses under the A2, or financial and professional services, use.

Cllr Fred Kaler said: "I am a bit concerned because it seems to me betting shops up and down the country are taking over all the shops. I think it's something that we should bear in mind because if we are not careful we will have betting shops and charity shops taking over the whole of the town centre."

The town council voted to oppose the plans, which will be decided by Wychavon District Council in due course.