A NEW 24/7 “mini-casino” will open in the heart of Southend High Street under plans to transform a former bookies that has stood empty for four years.

Southend Council has approved plans for Future Leisure Limited to open a new “adult gaming centre” in the old William Hill, where Barclays Bank once stood, close to the Victoria Shopping Centre.

The firm operates dozens of other centres across the UK, including a number in London which all boast bold “casino” branding on the outside.

William Hill shut in 2020 and the site has stood empty ever since.

According to the plans, the casino will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Plans have been approved by the council, providing the firm adheres to a “crime prevention plan” as part of their licence, including installing recordable CCTV and high quality lighting so customers are recognisable on captured images.

CCTV cameras will also need to cover all entrances and exits.

Matt Dent, Labour councillor responsible for business, culture, and tourism, said: “I am always wary of gambling institutions and the number in the city as they can be dangerous.

“However, it is certainly better to see a unit in the High Street occupied than empty.

“I am also sure the measures they are required to input around gambling and crime will be adhered to and will help.

“So, I think it is really good to finally see this unit come back to use.”

The access door will have a Maglock which can be operated by staff, and all staff will be trained on crime prevention measures.

The crime prevention plan also ensures the firm have “procedures in place to protect vulnerable people” and to support those at risk of gambling addictions.

There will be seven full-time and three part-time employees, with the proposed opening hours as 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The approved planning document adds: “In the specific circumstances of this case, particularly given the previous use of the site and existing lack of active frontage, the proposal is found to be acceptable.”