A FORMER bank in Southampton could be transformed into a 24-hour adult gaming centre should plans be approved by civic chiefs.

The plan for a gambling store at the vacant Santander premises in Shirley High Street, has been submitted to Southampton City Council seeking a change of use.

The plans were submitted by Merkur Slots UK, an online casino company. If approved, the centre will be open 24 hours a day.

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The applicant said the noise level at Merkur Slots sites is "generally very low" adding that impacts on disturbance to surrounding residences are "effectively mitigated and minimal".

The plans say the machines in the centre will offer "low stakes" of between 10p and £2.

A large number of Merkur’s premises have bingo machines and tablets.

The plans describe adult gaming centres as a place "where people go to spend their spare change, have a game of bingo and enjoy their favourite pastime".

A planning statement claims that the adult gaming centre "would not compromise the vitality and viability of the town centre".

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The plan adds that the centre will be "contributing to maintaining and enhancing the diverse economic mix within the town centre".

A total of 12 new jobs will be created in the area should plans be approved and will see the redecoration of the vacant building.

The plans say: "The new use will clearly complement the vitality and vibrancy of the centre, serving the local community within this part of the town centre and will contribute towards the vitality and viability of the centre.

"As a result, the introduction of an adult gaming centre in this location will support day-time and evening economies, whilst not undermining the role of the primary shopping area."

A decision on the plans is yet to be made by Southampton City Council.