LONDON, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

Paddy Power is pleased that the Judge has today upheld our appeal and granted the licence for Green Street.

We welcome the fact that the confusion surrounding Primary Activity has been clarified with Newham conceding during the proceedings that the 2005 Gambling Act relates only to whether an operator provides genuine facilities for betting. The Judge also noted that he, "believe[d] the concept to fall outside the remit of the Local Authority."

In granting the licence, the judge said that he disagreed with the decision of the sub-committee to reject the licence on the basis of crime & disorder which was "wrong" on the evidence presented. He concluded that the granting of the licence would be reasonably consistent with the licensing objective of preventing crime and disorder. He also pointed to flaws in the crime statistics relied on by Newham and lack of evidence to support the assertion that betting shops in Newham are a source of crime or disorder.

Paddy Power makes a positive contribution to local communities in which it operates. The UK high street is currently facing unprecedented challenges and our expanding retail presence adds much needed vitality and footfall to localities around the country as well as vital employment. Paddy Power is a responsible operator that takes proactive measures to offer a safe and responsible leisure experience for its customers and the community.

Paddy Power is committed to maintaining a close working relationship and open dialogue with all local councils. We are committed to building our relationship with Newham Council and do not want the community to lose out as a result of this case. We have therefore decided to donate all costs awarded to Paddy Power to charities working across Newham. We want to fund initiatives that support the local community, particularly around up-skilling, getting people into - and back into - work and social enterprise. We would like to set up a meeting to discuss this with Newham Council and the local MP, Stephen Timms to enable us to put the money to work as soon as possible.

Media enquiries:

Paddy Power plc
Catherine Colloms
Director of Corporate Affairs
Tel: +44(0)207-089-9700 ext. 4766
Mob: +44(0)7918-741847

Powerscourt:
Claire Turvey / Ellie Sweeney
Tel: +44(0)20-7250-1446    

For a full copy of the Appeal Judgment, please request from Powerscourt: claire.turvey@powerscourt-group.com / ellie.sweeney@powerscourt-group.com

SOURCE Paddy Power plc