Everyday, as a local resident trying to go about my daily life, I find myself and others constantly feeling uneasy and even frightened while walking past the Betfred on Borders Road. This establishment has unfortunately become a hub for antisocial behaviour, where drug dealing and illegal street drinking have seemingly become the norm. The presence of drug users smoking and drinking openly only adds to the tension and fear among local shoppers and pedestrians.

The impact of these activities is palpable and distressing. Borders Road, instead of being a safe community space, has turned into an area where families, children, and other residents feel unsafe to visit. These unsettling activities make it extremely difficult for us to engage in simple acts like visiting local shops or going for a walk in the neighborhood. We feel constantly on edge and worried about potential altercations or violence stemming from these illegal activities.

Statistics on crime and antisocial behaviour in our region highlight a significant increase since the opening of this Betfred location. According to recent reports, incidents of drug-related crimes have quadrupled in the past year, coinciding with the rise in illegal activities around the betting shop. Local businesses are suffering due to reduced customer traffic, further worsening the economic vitality of our area.

Shutting down the Betfred on Borders Road would be a substantial step towards restoring peace and safety in our community. Without this establishment acting as a magnet for antisocial elements, families would once again feel secure visiting local shops and enjoying public spaces.

We urge the local councils and law enforcement agencies to prioritise this issue and take immediate action to close down Betfred. We believe this action would not only help in restoring safety on our streets but would also aid in revitalising local businesses and fostering a more community-friendly environment.

Please sign this petition to help us reclaim our neighborhood from the grips of fear and insecurity. Together, let's make Borders Road a safer place for everyone.