PLANS for a new 24-hour casino in Bournemouth town centre have been recommended for approval.

In a report which will be considered at a planning board meeting on Monday, officers have urged that the application by Aspers’ Casino to take over two units in the new BH2 development in Exeter Road be granted - provided the firm supplies £16,000 towards new CCTV.

The report states: “The creation of a casino alongside other more ‘family based’ leisure facilities is not uncommon, but notwithstanding this, it does raise the need for careful consideration.

“In this instance the lower ground position of the casino and independent access arrangements afford the premises a degree of discreetness and isolation which subject to stringent management and tight security will ensure the premises can be well controlled and can be a good neighbour to other leisure uses within the development.”

Several planning and licensing applications have been made by firms looking to move into BH2. These include restaurants Las Iguanas, Joe’s Kitchen and Bella Italia.

Ward councillors Bob Chapman and David Smith have both objected to the plans.

In a letter they said the application “presents a major change from the cinema and catering uses which were finally approved, where there was no mention of a casino” and that the site had been referred to as “a family entertainment centre”.

They also expressed concern about potential late night disturbance for residents.

Bournemouth Civic Society has also objected, but two letters of support were submitted by pending tenants of the development. The Restaurant Group Ltd said the casino would be a “welcome point of difference” and bring in additional customers.

The officers’ report states that Dorset Police recommended Aspers’ make a financial contribution towards CCTV coverage.

“The potential impact on nearby residential and hotel premises is also highlighted although it is acknowledged this can to a degree be controlled by licensing conditions, effective management of the premises and a financial contribution towards improved CCTV in the immediate vicinity,” the report states.

The report concludes: “The proposed use will enhance the diverse range of uses available to people in the town centre and support the vitality and viability of the town centre economy.”

According to the plans, backed by BH2 developers Legal & General and Licet Holdings Ltd, the gambling firm would take over two of the largest units in the centre to create a two floor casino, open 24 hours a day, 364 days a year. It would feature live jazz music, a VIP area and electronic gaming machines.