A NEW amusement and games arcade could be on its way to a Southampton shopping centre.

Plans have been lodged by arcade company, Sega Amusements, to convert an empty unit in Westquay.

The unit, which is on the floor below Showcase Cinema, has been vacant since the opening of the shopping centre’s Westquay South extension in December 2016.

But Sega Amusements, who are part of the same company as Japanese video games giant, Sega, want to bring the empty unit to life with arcade games, air hockey, basketball and fairground-style sideshows.

The company, famous for games such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Daytona USA racing, say the arcade will be family friendly, with games aimed at children under 18.

Proposals are in the hands of council planning chiefs, who will make the final decision on whether the 337sqm unit, currently designated as a cafe or restaurant, can be used as an amusement arcade.

The company has asked for a temporary change of use for five years, with a further five year extension if the arcade is a success.

If plans are accepted, the amusement arcade could create up to six new jobs – four of which would be part time roles.

The company also hopes to have the facility open every day from 11am until 11pm at night.

Andy Collyer, Westquay general manager, said: “We’re always looking to add to and enhance the vast retail and leisure offering available at Westquay.

“At this very early stage we are unable to confirm who will be coming to the centre.”

Sega was founded in 1960 in Japan and remains one of the world’s leading video game producers.

The company famously created Sonic the Hedgehog, who has been the company’s mascot since 1991.

It is also known for Virtua Fighter and strategy war game series, Total War.

As well as headquarters in Tokyo, the company has its European head officer in London.