A 24-hour slots arcade is hoping to move into a unit previously occupied by a furniture charity shop.
Merkur Slots, which has a shop on St James’s Street, has applied for a licence and planning permission for a unit in the former Co Op department store development on London Road.
The unit is one of three set to be created by the subdivision of the British Heart Foundation charity shop, which closed last month.
The planning application for change of use, written by planning consultant Planning Potential, says: “the proposed change of use will … enhance its vitality, benefit the evening economy and reduce vacancy rates.
“Noise and disturbance as a result of the proposed 24-hour use can be kept to acceptable levels; the well-being and safety of residents will be preserved.”
It adds: “Merkur Slots premises are popular amongst both males and females and the customer base after midnight is predominantly the local entertainment workforce and shift workers who like to relax after their busy shifts.
“Merkur Slots customers tend to visit on their own or in couples – large groups are rare due to the offer and layout of the AGCs.
“As such, the nature of the use proposed would not result in adverse noise in either the day or night time hours.”
It says the arcade, which it refers to as an adult gaming centre, will employ 12 staff. Free soft drinks are provided to customers, but no alcohol is supplied.
It will be fitted with sound proofing and an automatic door closer.
To view and comment on the planning application, click here.
What a waste. The best they can come up with is another gambling joint? As if there aren’t enough bookies and slot machine shops on London Rd.
Just what a deprived area needs a way to fleece people of their cash.