A FORMER city centre bank could be turned into a bingo hall if new plans are approved.
The former TSB bank on Southampton’s High Street could be transformed into a bingo hall, according to documents lodged with the city council.
The application by a Mr P Harding states that no changes would be made to the outside of the building.
Only part of the ground floor would be used for the hall.
The remainder of the ground floor and upper floors are being converted into homes.
However, based on documents submitted to the city council, alternative uses for the site could include retail, a cafe, gym or nursery.
Business figures say they think the plans are a “good idea” adding that the venture could potentially bring more people into the area.
Heath Dixon from Biltong and Bangers told the Echo: “It is good to see it finally bring restored. It’s about time. It’s nice to see the area getting regenerated.
“High Street needs too much work. With Rocket Ronnies we get people who come in that are drinking for snacks. It is nice to have something that draws people in that can benefit other people. Any footfall is good footfall.”
Meanwhile, Tracy Ford from Central Convenience store, opposite the former bank, said: “I think it’s a good idea. No one comes this end of town now. It’s got quiet since the pandemic. We don’t want any more student flats.”
The applicant adds in the planning documents: “This is a prominent building of merit on Southampton’s High Street, currently the building is vacant and without a suitable use will likely remain vacant.
“Care has been taken to utilise existing walls and doorways where possible and the fit-out for tables and seating can be done without detriment to the fabric of the building.
“It should also be noted that bingo is played in a fairly silent environment with just the bingo caller announcing numbers through a sound system. Regular announcements are made by this particular operator to remind customers that are leaving the building to be respectful of neighbours.”
A consultation is open until March 10 with a decision due to be made by April 1 this year.
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