A license application made by JD Weatherspoon’s pub chain in respect of the Oxford bingo club, in Whitstable is to be considered by the Canterbury City Council next month. The application is somewhat ambiguous requesting permission to show “films indoors” as well as provide indoor refreshments.

Reports suggest the application could mean that the building could be used to fulfil its original function as a cinema. The drinking application is for late night indoor refreshments from 11pm until midnight from Sunday until Wednesday and 11pm till 1am from Thursday to Saturday.

In addition the application requests permission for the sale and supply of alcohol off the premises from 9am until midnight from Sunday until Wednesday and 9am until 1am on Thursday through to Saturday.

The Art Deco property in Oxford Street was sold by Stewart Neame earlier this year with JD Weatherspoons winning the bidding war. Mr Neame also operates the Connaught bingo hall in Herne Bay. He commented that the building had been sold as the number of people playing bingo in Whitstable had declined. The building had originally opened as the Oxford picture house in December 1912 and in 1936 was refurbished in the Art Deco style. There are mixed feelings amongst locals about the application.

Any comments relating to the application should be made before Tuesday 9th November.