Gala Coral Group sought the right to put up a satellite dish at the rear of their newly-acquired shop on Victoria Street but neighbours complained, claiming that the dish would be seen from various windows and is an infringement on the conservation area.
But planners stated that because the dish would be situated within an enclosed courtyard, belonging to the company, and that it would have a minimal impact on the conservation area it would be allowed.
Local hotelier Gordon Andrews, who owns the Galloway Arms Hotel next door, claimed that the dish would be visible from 15 windows on his property.
Planning officer Billy Murray said: "This is a bit of an adventurous claim, in fact you'd only see it from two windows. You'd really have to stretch out the others to see it."
He went on to say that there are a number of satellite dishes in the conservation area which have no planning permission, and that two are currently being challenged by the planning department.
"This one will be completely hidden from public view inside a private courtyard area, so we deem it acceptable," he said.
Howard Stephenson, Coral's chartered surveyor, spoke to say that the group were keen to avoid any conflicts in relation to conservation areas but that when Coral bought out a local bookies, they decided the existing premises weren't up to their national standards.
He added: "I must say, when reading the objections it seemed a lot of people were opposed to our business and not the satellite dish. But that issue has already been dealt with by this committee."
Members agreed to allow the dish but understood the application would now be referred to Historic Scotland.