Residents have raised concerns over plans for a new gambling centre at a former bar site.

Silvertime Amusements Limited is behind the plans for the former Rift and Co bar site in High Street.

They include an adult gaming centre and arcade on the ground with first floor toilet facilities and staff facilities on the second floor.

But Watford residents say there are much more suitable options for the site and also raised fears it could have a negative impact on the borough.

Posting on the Watford Observer's Facebook page residents have had their say on the plans.

Lidia Rufolo said: "Use the space for something of use. Something we actually need instead of encouraging gambling, like a play area now Gambados has gone but make it affordable so all can go. Or Home Bargains."

Joanne Grace Hiron added: "So there are enough places for alcoholics and now you want people with gambling addiction nice."

Angie Willey said: "Just another outlet to demise man with even more evil. Like there’s not enough around at the moment."

George O Wilson, said: "Not good for the town Peter Taylor, Mayor of Watford, we already have a couple of these and betting shops and makes it less attractive, keep them in pubs to drive the business to food and beverage outlets."

Sharon Davis said: "What about a sustainable produce shop or organic produce shop like whole foods? Why do we need more gambling places? The town centre and local areas are already littered with gambling shops, junk food or alcohol options. So we really need to keep encouraging a dysfunctional society?

"With a mental health crisis, it could be turned into a help clinic."

The bar has been closed for around three and a half years.

The plans say: "There will be no harm to retail vitality or diversity.

"The proposed change of use will create new employment and there will be additional investment by the applicant.

"The proposal would maintain and enhance the vitality and viability of the area."

The proposals say: "It is generally accepted that this kind of establishment attracts the same kind of person as nearby retail shops.

"It also attracts them in similar numbers.

"The proposal would have the appearance of a shop but with the guarantee of a window display."

There will also be a sign warning that anyone drunk will not be allowed in.

Silvertime Amusements Limited is an independent operator of Adult Gaming Centres and currently holds nine premises licences, including ones in Brent, Westminster, Barnet, Kensington and Chelsea. 

A Silvertime Amusements Limited spokesman said: "The application for an Adult Gaming Centre is made by a very experienced operator who is approved by the UK Gambling Commission to operate these venues. The operator has in place policies and procedures which comply with all regulations and conditions and which promote the licensing objectives at all times."