24-hour Bingo Hall Plan Tossed Out By Council

17 November 2025
ShareSave


Emily DaltonLocal Democracy Reporting Service


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


The choice by Spelthorne Borough Council last week followed a debate amongst councillors and opposition from locals who described the concept as "the last straw" for Staines town centre.


The proposal was to convert the vacant listed structure's ground floor into a 61-seat adult-only bingo hall running around the clock - a move which developers Sunni Ed Ltd declared would bring "vigor and practicality" back to the location.


But some whether the website would instead be utilized as "an out-and-out betting hall".


According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, planning files suggested that, had the job been greenlit, the developers had actually planned to get a betting licence before opening.


As part of the licensing process, a danger evaluation would have then been performed.


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


"Why would anyone want 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 stated the proposition went against regional policy developed to protect shopping spaces in Staines town centre, while several others added that the adult-only venue would do little to support an inclusive, family-friendly area.


Its result on issues like the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) currently in place on the High Street was also mentioned.


However, some did concede that bringing the structure back into usage could assist create step, while previous comments on the application suggested perhaps repurposing it for neighborhood benefit.


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


Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.