Slot machine centre plan for ex-William Hill shop in Wolverhampton

Merkur Slots has submitted a planning application to Wolverhampton Council, looking to take over the former William Hill betting shop in Market Street.

The premises have lain empty for months since the betting giant closed the store on October last year.

Agents Planning Potential said, if granted, the new business would create five full time jobs and would not cause a nuisance to any neighbouring properties.

In the application, they said: “Merkur Slots is one of several brands owned by Praesepe Holdings Ltd and currently trade 162 adult gaming centres (AGC) in the UK under the Merkur Cashino brand along with several other brands of bingo halls and amusement centres.

“Praesepe in itself is part of the international Gauselmann Group operating worldwide and employing thousands of staff.

“The unit is currently vacant and was previously occupied by William Hill, who vacated the property in October 2019.

“A Job Centre adjoins the unit. In terms of vehicular access, there is short-stay parking and a bus route that runs via Market Street, making it a sustainable location.

“Offices are located on the upper floor. Uses in close proximity include numerous takeaways, alongside a mixture of retail and service uses.

“The nature of the proposed AGC is similar to that of the previous betting shop.

“It is important to note that AGCs are quiet uses and are very different from the family amusement arcades that contain noisy games and machines.

“It is also important to note that the number of customers reduces significantly during night-time hours.

“Praesepe Holdings Ltd is a responsible operator and there will be a member of staff on site at all times to ensure customers respect the amenities of residents.

“Given the similarities between the existing and proposed uses, the proposals will not give rise to any undue noise and disturbance adjoining uses.

“Being responsibly operated means that any adverse effect on amenities and viability of current and future occupants will be avoided.

“The proposal involves the bringing-back of a vacant unit into commercial use which will lead to improvements to the front façade, high footfall, linked trips and new jobs.”