‘Noise and nuisance’ concerns as former bank could become 24-hour gaming centre

Locals said they were concerned about potential noise and antisocial behaviour if the plans are approved

Plans have been submitted for a former Halifax bank to become a 24-hour ‘adult gaming centre’. Luxury Leisure submitted an application to Fenland District Council to change the use of a bank on Wisbech’s Market Place into an entertainment centre.

The building at 28 Market Place is currently a former Halifax bank premises which closed in January 2025. The application is to establish the change of use with the adult gaming centre operating on the ground floor level.

A covering letter states: “Internally, there will be no noisy amusement arcade equipment which attracts under 18’s [sic] and has an impact on amenity. Unlike an ‘amusement arcade’ which is noisy to attract passing customers of all ages, there is statutory obligation to exclude under 18’s from AGC’s.”

The proposed 24-hour use plans to ensure footfall to the town centre operating seven days a week. Luxury Leisure say they have never had a licence reviewed or revoked and are a “socially responsible national multiple operate with an excellent covenant”.

Comments on the Fenland District Council planning portal expressed concerns about the entertainment centre including a potential rise in antisocial behaviour. One resident wrote: “The potential for increased noise from patrons entering and leaving late at night, combined with the ‘clustering’ effect of similar venues nearby, could lead to a rise in anti-social behaviour.”

They added: “The Market Place is a primary thoroughfare for families and students. Placing a gambling venue in such a high-traffic area for minors is socially irresponsible.”

“Wisbech already possesses several gambling and betting establishments. Granting another license creates an over-concentration of these uses, leading to a ‘tipping point’ where the town centre feels dominated by gambling rather than sustainable retail or community-focused businesses,” the comment continued.

“There are no adverse impacts and there is no evidence of any anti-social behaviour being exacerbated by such use”, the applicant said.

Councillor Steve Tierney said he believed the proposed entertainment centre posed “serious consequences for addicts” and possible “noise and nuisance”.