24-hour Bingo Hall Plan Tossed Out By Council

17 November 2025
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Emily DaltonLocal Democracy Reporting Service


A plan to turn a previous branch of NatWest bank in Surrey into a 24-hour bingo hall has actually been tossed out.


The decision by Spelthorne Borough recently followed a dispute amongst councillors and opposition from homeowners who explained the concept as "the final stroke" for Staines town centre.


The proposal was to transform the vacant noted structure's ground floor into a 61-seat adult-only bingo hall operating all the time - a move which designers Sunni Ed Ltd declared would bring "vigor and viability" back to the location.


But some dissenters questioned whether the website would rather be used as "an out-and-out betting hall".


According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, preparing documents suggested that, had actually the project been greenlit, the developers had actually intended to get a gaming licence before opening.


As part of the licensing process, a threat assessment would have then been performed.


Councillor Denise Saliagopoulos called the plan "outrageous", stating: "We're decreasing a slippery slope.


"Why would anyone desire to play bingo 24 hours a day?" asked Councillor Chris Bateson.


"I can't imagine a couple stating at 10pm, 'Let's go and play bingo'."


Ward councillor Howard Williams said the proposal went versus regional policy created to secure shopping areas in Staines town centre, while numerous others included that the adult-only venue would do little to support an inclusive, family-friendly space.


Its impact on concerns like the general public Space Protection Order (PSPO) already in place on the High Street was likewise discussed.


However, some did yield that bringing the building back into usage might assist produce step, while previous talk about the application recommended perhaps repurposing it for community advantage.


Other concepts consisted of turning it into a post workplace, a cultural centre, a health and health and wellbeing center or independent shops.


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