License Issued for 24-Hour Adult Gaming Centre Despite Opposition

Permission has been granted for a 24-hour adult gaming centre, situated in a city centre area identified as deprived, notwithstanding various objections. Merkur Slots intends to establish this facility, which will offer bingo and slot machines, on Sidwell Street within Exeter. A local city councillor voiced opposition, stating that the establishment should not be permitted in a highly deprived area due to the risk of drawing in vulnerable individuals. The licensing committee of Exeter City Council subsequently approved the application, subject to certain conditions. Councillor Tammy Palmer, a Liberal Democrat representing Duryard and St James, expressed her opposition to the proposals during the meeting held on Wednesday. She highlighted gambling as a significant public health issue and contended that Merkur had failed to consider the substantial level of deprivation present in the locality. Councillor Palmer further noted that the concentration of hostels and supported living accommodations in the ward significantly exceeded that of other areas, expressing apprehension that a 24-hour gaming centre could attract vulnerable individuals. She stated: “I don’t believe you have the best interests of our community at heart.” Martyn Snow, a Labour councillor and the chairman of the meeting, commented that the vicinity contained a “large street-attached population”. Gerald Gouriet KC, who represented Merkur Slots during the proceedings, challenged Ms Palmer’s assertions, stating that safeguarding vulnerable individuals and children was a primary consideration in Merkur’s proposals. He explained that the company enforces a stringent no-alcohol policy, and its employees undergo extensive training, including a directive to request identification from anyone appearing to be under 25 years old. Mr. Gouriet mentioned that Merkur Slots, an operator of numerous establishments nationwide, has never had a licensing application denied. Merkur currently operates another 24-hour adult gaming centre located on Fore Street, on the opposite side of the city. As a condition of approval, the licensing committee mandated that Merkur install and operate CCTV surveillance covering 25 meters (80ft) of the street in both directions. Nick Wedgery, proprietor of CareClean, a dry cleaning establishment on Sidwell Street, reported frequent and persistent anti-social behavior in the vicinity. He stated: “We’ve got enough issues already in this street.” He added: “I think the bingo centre is only going to make the situation worse – especially as it’s going to be 24 hours. It’s just going to escalate the problems we already have.”