Casino proposal to meet leisure needs

The prospect of the gambling venue has been suggested by a solicitor acting for the Hotham Arts Centre's current theatre operator.

In a letter to Arun District Council, Sebastian Charles says Arun Arts do not consider the St Modwen proposals will add to the leisure provisions in the town.

'Arun Arts believe a scheme entirely conceived to meet the leisure needs could be successful without subsidy,' he states.

'It has its own scheme including ice/roller rink, children's play park, bowling alley, casino, multi-restaurant and bandstand all themed on a ship's deck in preparation and incorporating a retained Alexandra Theatre.

'Arun Arts believe that well-costed shows in a slightly larger theatre than the existing Alexandra Theatre '“ 501 seats '“ will be very successful.

'There is a demonstrable need in the town for an arts centre with facilities of the scale presently offered by the Hotham Arts Centre.

'At present, the theatre (with 364 seats) provides opportunities for all groups. Theatrical, music and youth groups use the facilities and, on many nights, three or four different groups use the centre.

'This sort of public, inclusive offer will not be accommodated in the St Modwen scheme, at much loss to the cultural activities of the town.'

Mr Charles, of London solicitors K and L Gates, states that Arun Arts has grave concerns about the report by consultants Locum which recommends a combined cinema/theatre as one of the main elements of an entertainment complex on the crucial seafront site.

The idea of a '˜destination cinema' with luxury surroundings failed to take account of the price sensitive market in Bognor. This was borne out by the record attendances at the Picturedrome Cinema since its prices were slashed by up to half.

Locum has also failed to consider Arun Arts' preferred option of a theatre funded from catering and other leisure provision revenue.

The option of upgrading and extending the existing theatre has also been ignored in the report, Mr Charles comments.

'Arun Arts calls for the Locum report to be rejected as unsound and too narrowly focused and for options contemplating retention of the existing theatre to be considered and tested against the St Modwen proposal,' he adds.

But his letter failed to influence councillors at last week's special meeting of Arun District Council at which it was considered. They continued to back the St Modwen's proposals.

l A range of seaside resorts were chosen earlier this year for large and small casinos after the government announced changes in the law which governs the gambling businesses.