Petition to save Glossop chemist from bookies

A Glossop woman has launched a petition online to save a listed building from becoming a bookies and has already garnered almost 900 signatures.
Former chemists Finlay McKinlay, on High Street West, Glossop. Photo contributed.Former chemists Finlay McKinlay, on High Street West, Glossop. Photo contributed.
Former chemists Finlay McKinlay, on High Street West, Glossop. Photo contributed.

Last year, High Peak Borough Council granted bookmakers William Hill planning permission for new windows, door and signage at the former chemists Finlay McKinlay, on High Street West.

Bethany O’Toole, who started the campaign on petition platform Change.org, has 896 supporters.

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She said: “Finlay McKinlays is one of Glossop’s most distinctive buildings. To see this beautiful shop turned into a bookmakers, something the High Street does not need, would be a terrible shame. High Peak Borough Council have already refused the applicant, Madison Commercial, before today and should continue to refuse it alongside lowering the rates so local and independent traders can make use of the site and retain its heritage.”

William Hill has also been granted consent for proposed minor internal and external work to include the installation of a satellite dish, a television aerial and two air conditioning units.

In 2012, the authority refused an application submitted by Madison Commercial, of Manchester, for change of use from shop to financial and professional services.

Finlay McKinlay was taken over by Cohen’s Chemist in 2006, who have since moved to new premises on High Street East.

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In 2012, a 19th century ducal warrant and crest was removed from the building, thought to apply to chemist Thomas Wreaks, as requested by the Glossop and District Heritage Trust, who thought it would be inappropriate for a new business to be operating by the appointment of the Duke of Norfolk.

To sign Bethany’s petition, visit change.org.