Local councillors have refused plans to convert the former WHSmith unit in the heart of Bridgwater into an adult gaming centre, despite the previous granting of a premises licence for the business.
The retail unit at 14-15 Cornhill, situated on the Celebration Mile within Bridgwater town centre, was vacated when WHSmith closed in September 2024 and has stood empty since.
East Kent Leasing Ltd. submitted applications in January and May seeking permission to transform the site into a 24-hour gambling facility, which they said would create up to seven part-time and two full-time jobs.
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A premises licence was granted by Somerset Council’s licensing team in November 2025 without objections from Avon and Somerset Constabulary. However, the council’s planning committee north, which oversees major applications within the former Sedgemoor area, declined the proposal, citing concerns that it would exacerbate antisocial behaviour in the area.
This decision coincides with government moves to empower local authorities to restrict new betting shops, vape shops and similar establishments in order to protect and improve town centres.
The proposed plans involved minimal alterations to the Cornhill unit, which neighbours the Coffee#1 coffee shop and stands opposite the Sports Direct store. These included installing a black granite tiled shop-front and a new toughened, laminated entrance door.
East Kent Leasing Ltd., owned by the Godden family, have over 40 years of experience in the gaming sector and operate more than 400 adult gaming centres under the ‘Palace Amusements’ brand across the UK.
Bridgwater Town Council formally objected, arguing there was insufficient evidence that the premises lacked demand as a retail unit and expressing concerns that the gaming centre could increase antisocial behaviour.
During the planning committee meeting on 11 August, councillors echoed such sentiments.
Councillor Matt Martin (Liberal Democrat, King Alfred) noted the proximity of two similar gaming sites within 90 to 145 metres of the unit. He emphasised the known social issues related to gambling and questioned the appropriateness of adding another such facility.
Councillor Brian Smedley (Bridgwater South) highlighted the presence of multiple betting shops nearby and expressed concern about the impact on the town centre’s retail appeal and neighbouring residential areas, citing existing antisocial behaviour problems involving substance use.
Councillor Kathy Pearce (Bridgwater South) added that an adult gaming centre in a prominent position within the dock conservation area would not enhance the town centre’s image.
Councillor Alan Bradford (Conservative, North Petherton) lamented the decline of town centres, attributing much of it to online shopping, and expressed his personal regret over the loss of WHSmith. He remarked that the town centre should not have “too many barbers or betting shops,” suggesting this application would be excessive.
After approximately an hour of discussion, the committee voted to refuse the application. East Kent Leasing Ltd. has yet to announce whether it will appeal the decision.