The 'slot casinos' dominating Tooting's high street

Another adult gaming centre has opened in Tooting Bec, making it the third gambling branch in Tooting.

The brand-new venue opened to the public on 17th May and reportedly created ten new local jobs.

Mark Schertle, CEO of MERKUR Casino, said: "This is a very exciting time for the MERKUR Slots brand.

"Following an uncertain year, we're delighted to be able to continue our investment in the high street and give customers a brand-new experience in locations where we don't currently have a presence, such as Tooting Bec.

"It means a lot to us to be able to support the local community with job opportunities."

Some residents feel that the venues are 'encouraging gambling' in Tooting.

Responding to the first venue opening back in December, one resident said:

"Not the best thing to open up, to be honest. Even during the first lockdown, I've seen the regular people who hang outside looking lost because they had closed all the betting shops. Not really great."

Another resident said: "Not what you need in when you have so many gambling places already and an economic depression looming on the horizon."

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