Should you ever be sent to Coventry, you might find that you are able to play bingo and slots for 24 hours a day if planners approve the application submitted by Merkur Slots.

Merkur Slots, which opened its adult gaming centre and slots arcade on Walsgrave Road in Ball Hill in 2023, has applied to extend its operating hours beyond the current 10-hour limit.

Noise Nuisance Concerns Raised by Councillors and Residents

The company, which employs ten people, is seeking to remove original conditions that limited opening times to 8 am to midnight. However, concerns have been raised by council officers and residents about potential noise nuisance.

The adult games centre is situated alongside other businesses that operate 24 hours a day, including shops and service stations.

Company Successful with Applications for 24-Hour Opening Across UK

The company owns several venues across the UK and has been successful in applications to open 24 hours at some of these.

The company had permission for a new 24-hour adult gaming centre in Ayr High Street with plans for the redevelopment of an empty former café which has been vacant since 2020.

Despite several objections being lodged, including concerns about the impact of gambling in the area, that application was unanimously approved.

Councillors Must Submit Comprehensive Reports to Back Their Objections

The drive to repurpose empty retail units in UK high streets is providing opportunities for the gambling industry. Planners must submit comprehensive reports for any objections to plans. The system has changed from when a show of hands would determine a decision.

For example, local authority decisions on planning applications in Wales are taken either by the head of planning under powers delegated to them by the council or by the planning committee, which is made up of elected councillors. In some instances, legislation provides for decisions to be taken by governments. This process is known as a ‘call in’.