Gambling firm appeals refusal of 24 hour venue in Worthing town centre

A gambling company has lodged an appeal after plans for a 24 hour gaming venue in Worthing town centre were refused by the local council.

Merkur Slots has taken its case to the Planning Inspectorate following Worthing Borough Council’s decision to reject proposals to convert the former Scope charity shop at 3–4 Chapel Road into an adult gaming centre. Planning officers had initially recommended the scheme for approval in January, but councillors voted unanimously against it in February.

Councillor Ödül Bozkurt said the application conflicted with development policies and raised concerns about potential impacts on residents and nearby businesses, particularly given the site’s location within a conservation area. Merkur Slots argues the refusal lacks substantive evidence and says the development would bring a vacant unit back into use while supporting the local economy, despite opposition from community groups and the town’s MP.