A city venue's plans to stay open until the early hours of the morning have been refused. 

Luxury Leisure, the company behind the Admiral Casino slot machines venue in St Stephens Street, had been seeking permission to extend its opening hours to 2am, two hours later than its current closing time.

However, the plans raised concerns about the mix of gambling and people who had been out drinking. 

“I was opposed to the opening of the adult gaming centre when it was first proposed,” said Martin Schmierer, a Green group city councillor for the Mancroft ward.

"I would question the need for it to go on to 2am.

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"It’s not part of a late-night area of the city and I don’t want it to prey on people who may have had too much to drink. 

Norwich Evening News: Cllr Martin Schmierer Cllr Martin Schmierer

“I don’t think that 2am is the time for clear thinking about your money, especially at a time when bills are rising and debts are going up. 

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“I don’t want to see people looking for easy wins losing savings and wages.” 

The firm pointed out that there are a number of businesses in the area open until late, including several pubs which are open until 1am.  

The planning application submitted also said: “Luxury Leisure has been operating at the site for a prolonged period of time (nearly four years) and the applicant has not been notified of any reported issues or complaints. 

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“Luxury Leisure has robust measures in place to ensure that the proposed development would not have a detrimental impact on crime or the amenity of neighbouring properties.  

“The applicant takes community safety and crime prevention very seriously and has numerous measures in place to prevent anti-social behaviour.” 

Norwich City Council rejected the proposals though, based on the potential impact on neighbours and the new opening hours being "out of character or scale" with a retail area.