A 24-hour adult gaming centre licence was approved in Cliftonville, Margate, despite concerns over anti-social behaviour and impact on nearby businesses
New Adult Gaming Centre Opens in Cliftonville
A new “adult gaming centre” has received a licence to operate 24 hours a day on a trendy street in Kent, despite concerns from neighbors.
Cain’s Amusements already operates another similar venue just a few doors down on Northdown Road in Cliftonville, which was named one of the world’s “coolest streets” by Time Out.
The centre will open in the former Mainsale bric-a-brac store, located next to a charity shop on Northdown Road.
Approval was granted despite worries about the impact on the nearby charity shop and existing anti-social behavior issues in the alleyway between the two units.
Details of the Gaming Centre
During a Thanet District Council licensing subcommittee meeting on Tuesday, operations manager Bill Cain stated, “It would be a room of slot machines – there’s no alcohol involved.”
He explained that the centre will feature category C machines, which have a £1 maximum stake, and £500 jackpot machines with a £2 maximum stake. Unlike pubs, there will be no alcohol served.
Cain’s also operates a flagship arcade in Herne Bay, along with Scoops ice cream parlours in Herne Bay and Tankerton, and arcades in Leysdown on Sheppey.
Concerns from Neighbors
The owner of the neighboring premises, occupied by the Oasis domestic abuse charity’s shop, objected to the new centre. She expressed concerns about potential negative impacts on tenant wellbeing and property value.
She noted that the alleyway between the buildings has experienced persistent anti-social behavior, including littering and public drinking.
Despite these concerns, consultant Debby Bollard stated that the objector had “not produced any evidence” that the arcade would interfere with their business.
Crime and Safety Considerations
A risk assessment report by the gambling trade body Bacta indicated higher than average crime levels in Cliftonville. However, Bollard emphasized that Cain’s has a “good relationship” with the police.
She assured that the premises would be discreet, without loud music or displays typical of seafront entertainment centers. A membership scheme may be implemented for regular customers.
Mr. Cain clarified that customers can walk in off the street, and staff will decide on membership during “darkness hours.”
Future Developments
The alleyway will remain locked, and a smoking area will be provided at the rear of the premises. The subcommittee granted the licence after a brief discussion, but a separate planning application for “change of use” is still pending.
KentOnline reported last year that Mainsale closed after 25 years on Northdown Road. It was well-loved by customers and known for its slogan: “If we haven’t got it, you don’t need it.”
Northdown Road was rated by Time Out as the world’s 31st coolest street last year, praised for its “edgy feel” and “beautifully curated vintage shops.”
