Go ahead for plans to create video games centre that could stay open to 11pm each day in Peterborough

Approval has been granted to proposals to change the use of a former Labrokes betting shop in Midgate to allow an adult gaming centre to open.

The plans submitted by Johnson Falaiye have been given the go ahead by planning chiefs at Peterborough City Council.

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The proposed hours of operation of the centre are 10am to 11pm daily with the outlet to be called Racecraft Sim.

A spokesperson for Johnson Falaiye stated: “The proposed business would operate as an indoor leisure use, focused on video gaming and simulation-style gaming.

"The use would not involve betting, gambling, casino activity, prize gaming or adult gaming machines.

"The premises would be managed and supervised by staff during opening hours.”

The spokesperson added: “The former use as a betting office would have generated regular customer visits and activity within the city centre.

"The proposed video games centre would similarly attract customers to the area, contributing to footfall and supporting the vitality and function of the city centre.

“The proposal should be viewed positively as the reuse of an existing unit for a modern leisure use.

"It would avoid vacancy, support economic activity and provide a supervised indoor recreational use in a sustainable city centre location.”

Council officers, who approved the application on November 6, were told that a total of 10 simulators would be installed, with a maximum of up to 25 customers on site at any one time. All games would be played using headphones.

A minimum of one member of staff would be present during opening hours and staff will monitor the floor and manage customer behaviour throughout the day.

News of the successful planning application comes days after it was revealed proposals had been drawn up to open an adult gaming centre in a residential area of Peterborough in a move that will create 12 jobs.

Operator Luxury Leisure, which is part of the Novomatic Group, is looking to open the new venue in the former Sue Ryder furniture store in Lincoln Road.

A planning application seeking approval for a change of use of the building has been submitted to the council.