A former clothes shop is set to be turned into an 'adult gaming centre'.

Cornshire Group has been given planning permission to install gaming machines installed in the former Blue Inc store on Broad Street in King's Lynn.

A planning statement says: "Having recently sold Hunstanton Pier in Norfolk, and Paignton Pier in Devon, the Cornshire Group is now looking to reinvest the proceeds back into the gaming industry and see 37 Broad Street as the perfect site."

The application sparked a fierce debate on the council's planning portal, with 23 people supporting the application and 12 objections.

Jackie Harriman posted: "Everyone has their hobbies, and for some, it's gambling. So why not provide them with a variety of options to choose from?"

Helen Lewis added: "King's Lynn urgently needs investment from parties willing to contribute financially, much like the current application."

Other supporters said the development would prevent another shop from being boarded up.

But Wayne Fysh said: "Introducing another casino slots unit in our town centre, with its high footfall, is not only unnecessary but also detrimental to the wellbeing of our community.

"Moreover, the proliferation of gambling opportunities, both online and offline, poses serious risks to individuals, particularly those who already struggle with gambling addiction."

And Wanda Simper added: "I feel strongly that in the present economic climate, people should not be encouraged to gamble."

King's Lynn Civic Society also objected. It said: "We are not clear what the complete answer to the continuing decline of high streets and town centres might be – but we doubt it will be ‘adult gaming centres’."

A planning officer's report said there are already two similar centres nearby.

But it added: "Based on the current situation it is considered that the cumulative impact of three adult gaming centres within the town centre would not be excessive given the scale of the town centre of King’s Lynn."

The centre will be open seven days a week, from 9am - 11pm and employ 12 staff.