Former bank to be transformed into bingo hall

Plans to transform a former branch of NatWest bank on Staines High Street into a 24-hour bingo hall have approved by the planning inspector.

Proposals for the adults-only 61-seat venue were originally thrown out by Spelthorne Borough Council in November, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Councillors labelled it an "out-and-out gambling centre" and raised concerns about it being for only over-18s.

The appeal decision said the building "would likely give Staines town centre a boost, rather than dragging it down".

The inspector said bingo halls were appropriate for town centres, which are always changing, having fewer traditional banks and shops than before.

They also found that there was no clear evidence the bingo hall would harm neighbouring residents in terms of noise or disturbance, despite its 24-hour opening.

The decision noted that the site is in a location where late-night activity already exists, and that the council's environmental health team had not objected.

Concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour were also dismissed, with no evidence provided to show the bingo hall would lead to increased problems.

While acknowledging worries about the wider impacts of gambling, Marriott said it was controlled separately under licensing legislation.

Following the decision, the developer now has three years to transform the old bank site into the bingo hall.

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