Ladbrokes and McClean Bookmakers Fail To Block Rival Shops' Expansions Ladbrokes and McClean bookies fail to obstruct competing shops' expansions 20 May 2013 Two bookies have failed in High Court bids to obstruct proposed extensions to rival betting shops in Belfast. A judge dismissed efforts by both Ladbrokes and McClean bookmakers to judicially review preparation choices in favour of Toals and Sean Graham. The judge at Belfast High Court stated he would give factors for his choice at a later stage. The legal proceedings had been released over applications for the growth of two stores in the city centre. The very first, run by Toals in Pottinger's Entry, includes a proposal to extend out into the former passport office on High Street. In the second, Sean Graham is seeking to increase the space of its King Street betting workplace by taking over a hair stylists on Castle Street. 'Disgruntled competitor' Lawyers for Ladbrokes and McClean bookmakers declared both were attempting to get round a requirement of video gaming legislation to show demand. During the case the two companies acknowledged their interest as industrial competitors. Points were also raised about compliance with policies safeguarding a conservation location. But counsel for Sean Graham argued that the legal challenge was the act of a disgruntled rival, exclusively worried with the influence on its own service. According to the Planning Service's legal agents, neither proposed advancement involves alterations to structures visible from the street. Following the decision, Sean Graham bookmakers, which utilize 150 staff in 30 stores throughout Northern Ireland, outlined its blueprint for modern-day properties and more tasks.