Plans to open a 24-hour gambling centre in a South East London high street are already drawing significant opposition from local residents. Merkur Slots has submitted an application to Bexley Council to convert the former HSBC bank unit at 83 Sidcup High Street into an adult gaming centre (AGC). The bank branch closed in 2022 and has remained vacant since.
The proposal, lodged on May 27, has received 75 objections and no letters of support as of June 10. Merkur Slots, which operates over 220 AGCs across the UK, intends to open the centre 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The company claims the new venue would bring a vacant unit back into use, enhancing the vitality and viability of Sidcup District Centre, including its evening economy, and create 12 jobs.
Details of the proposal
Planning documents state: 'Merkur Slots premises are popular amongst both males and females, and the customer base after midnight is predominately 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.' The company plans to install acoustic perimeter seals around the shopfront door frame to prevent noise from escaping, noting that noise levels from its 24-hour venues are 'generally very low' and impacts are effectively mitigated.
Televisions will be placed in the unit's windows to advertise the gaming machines on offer inside the AGC.
Community reaction and next steps
The gambling centre would be located next door to Sidcup's new Banking Hub, which opened in April. Operated by Royal Mail, the hub serves customers from various banks and building societies, offering hope after Santander, the last remaining bank branch on the high street, closed in August 2023.
Bexley Council's public consultation on the application closes on June 16, with neighbour consultation ending on June 23. The council aims to make a decision by July 22. The plans can be viewed on the council's planning portal under reference 26/01054/FUL.
