Ok ok, you've argued vehemently against my dislike of them then. You've stated that you don't believe that they impinge on your life at all, and have found fault with every argument I have given regarding the negative impact they have and the negative impact new outlets would have. Even though you maintain that the number of bookies has halved, the number of people gambling and numbers of problem gamblers have remained around the same figures - which suggests that twice as much gambling is taking place in half as many establishments. Which by definition also suggests that an increase in the amount of gambling establishments has potential.
I am not arguing for the abolition of bookmakers either, I am arguing that an increase in their numbers and visibility on the local streets devalues the area and brings more potential problems leading to poverty and crime. If I could change the Blockbusters site into a coffee shop, deli, butchers or bakers I would be much happier.

Tell it to the residents of Hackney. Or are all those outlets magically staying afloat in your 'there must be demand before supply' mentality?! If that were the case, there'd be very little advance in the world wouldn't there?

You know, it doesn't take many criminal elements in an area to make a large impact. I'm sure you are well aware that the majority of crimes are committed by a minority of people. And I'm fairly sure low aspirations, poor education and poverty are all involved. There are links, if you are willing to acknowledge them.

We agree on something! YAY!