Slots Trading Ltd has applied to open a new 24-hour bingo hall in Eastbourne, promoting the ways in which the Terminus Road venue could improve both the vitality and late-night safety of the area.

The plans concern the vacant former haberdashery store Closs and Hamblin, and if approved by Eastbourne Borough Council will deliver ten new jobs while significantly boosting footfall to the town centre.

“Arcades such as this are intrinsically town centre uses and are part of the modern day high street, so much so that they are considered a ‘main town centre use’ by the National Planning Policy Framework,” states the submission. 

“Being 24-hour, Slots Trading Ltd can provide surveillance for the immediate area throughout the night. In the later hours and early morning, the customer base is mostly comprised of shift workers who run the local eateries and establishments and wish to relax and unwind after work.”

Reporting on the submission, The Argus observed that “with the change in the use of the property, Slots Trading Ltd anticipates an increase in the number of pedestrians on the high street, which could result in linked visits to other businesses.”

“As part of its operations, Slots Trading Ltd will look to provide a safe gambling environment, focusing on the welfare and protection of its patrons.”