24-hour Bingo Hall Plan Thrown Away By Council
17 November 2025
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Emily DaltonLocal Democracy Reporting Service
A strategy to turn a former branch of NatWest bank in Surrey into a 24-hour bingo hall has been tossed out.
The decision by Spelthorne Borough Council last week followed a dispute among councillors and opposition from residents who explained the idea as "the final stroke" for Staines town centre.
The proposal was to transform the uninhabited noted structure's ground flooring into a 61-seat adult-only bingo hall operating around the clock - a move which designers Sunni Ed Ltd claimed would bring "vigor and viability" back to the area.
But some dissenters questioned whether the site would instead be used as "an out-and-out gambling hall".
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, preparing files indicated that, had actually the job been greenlit, the designers had actually meant to get a betting licence before opening.
As part of the licensing process, a danger assessment would have then been brought out.
Councillor Denise Saliagopoulos called the strategy "outrageous", saying: "We're decreasing a slippery slope.
"Why would anybody wish to 24 hr a day?" asked Councillor Chris Bateson.
"I can't think of a couple saying at 10pm, 'Let's go and play bingo'."
Ward councillor Howard Williams stated the proposition went versus regional policy developed to protect shopping areas in Staines town centre, while a number of others added that the adult-only place would do little to support an inclusive, family-friendly space.
Its effect on problems like the general public Space Protection Order (PSPO) currently in location on the High Street was likewise discussed.
However, some did yield that bringing the building back into usage could assist create step, while previous talk about the application suggested possibly repurposing it for neighborhood advantage.
Other ideas consisted of turning it into a post office, a cultural centre, a health and wellness center or independent shops.
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