Local councillors have turned down proposals to convert a vacant former WHSmith retail unit into a 24-hour adult gaming centre in Bridgwater town centre. Despite a premises licence being granted in November 2025, the planning committee north at Somerset Council refused the application due to concerns it would worsen antisocial behaviour in the area.
The unit at 14-15 Cornhill, located on the Celebration Mile, has stood empty since WHSmith closed its doors in September 2024. East Kent Leasing Ltd., a company owned by the Godden family with over 40 years’ experience in the gaming sector and operators of more than 400 adult gaming centres nationwide under the ‘Palace Amusements’ brand, submitted two planning applications earlier this year to transform the unit.
Although the licence was approved with no objections from Avon and Somerset Constabulary, local authorities expressed reservations about the impact on the community. Bridgwater Town Council formally opposed the plans, citing a lack of evidence demonstrating reduced demand for retail premises and concerns that a gaming centre could increase antisocial activities.
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At the planning committee meeting on 11 August, councillors highlighted the presence of two existing similar gaming venues within close proximity-one 90 metres away on Fore Street and another 145 metres away on the High Street. Councillor Matt Martin (Liberal Democrat, King Alfred) remarked on the concentration of gambling outlets, stressing the area’s vulnerability to related social issues.
Councillors Brian Smedley and Kathy Pearce, representing divisions including the site, emphasised the potential negative effects on local residents and the town centre’s image. Councillor Alan Bradford (Conservative, North Petherton) reflected on the decline of town centres due to factors such as online shopping and voiced nostalgia for former retail staples like WHSmith.
The plans envisaged minimal changes to the building’s layout, including a black granite tiled frontage and a new laminated entrance door. The proposed development would have created up to seven part-time and two full-time jobs.
Following around an hour of deliberation, the planning committee voted to refuse the application. East Kent Leasing Ltd. has yet to announce whether it will appeal the decision.