A new adult gaming centre in Swansea has been granted planning permission despite strong opposition from a coalition of academics, faith leaders, and local politicians. The Merkur Slots UK Ltd venue will occupy a former Betfred betting shop on Oxford Street and is set to operate 24 hours a day.
Opposition from Community Leaders
A group of 16 objectors, including Reverend Mark Thomas, Gwyr Abertawe MS Mike Hedges, and several Swansea University academics, voiced concerns that such venues normalise gambling. They argued that gambling establishments are disproportionately concentrated in deprived areas and that the unit was originally supposed to remain non-gambling after Betfred relocated.
Simon Dymond, a professor of psychology and director of a gambling research centre, stated: "Gambling harm is a major public health issue requiring urgent intervention, not expansion."
Merkur's Defense
Merkur Casino UK, the parent company, argued that adult gaming centres differ from betting shops. They noted that their machines offer low stakes (10p to £2) and do not feature fixed odds betting terminals, which are heavily regulated. The company emphasised that their venues provide "exciting slot gaming entertainment" with trained staff.
Planning Rationale
The Oxford Street unit had been vacant since late 2024. A commercial estate agent reported that other potential tenants lost interest due to high fit-out costs and lack of parking. The council's planning officers noted that approving the centre would help improve footfall and regenerate the city centre.
Officers acknowledged the objections but concluded there was no condition requiring an alternative use for the unit. They also highlighted that separate licensing laws govern such premises.
