A MUM of seven who runs a bingo hall and arcade has cast doubts over a planned covered market for the town.

Kellie Tyler runs the social club and arcade in Kingsway, Dovercourt, which was once the Basement nightclub.

The arcade is closed for a refurbishment and will reopen in March while the upstairs bingo hall and social club function room is available to hire.

But last week designs for a new covered market and flats were unveiled for the building.

Plans would see the building transformed into 22 stalls and a cafe, with a extension and a total of 20 flats.

The existing 1930s façade would be kept.

But Kellie, who hires the function room with a disco and buffet for parties and charity events, said she is unsure if a market would be a success.

She added: “I’ve had the building for two years, I’m there to provide the community with what they need.

“I know how much things cost. But as an indoor market I don’t think it is going to work.

“There is the market on a Friday, which everyone looks forward to.

"We had to wait years to have it in the town centre, but it can be a struggle to get people to come.

“I don’t think a covered market would bring people to the town.

“What I think we need is a kids’ clothes shop or a sports shop.

“We have to do what the community wants.”

Last week Kirsti Ayling, who set up the community group Create to host local events in the town, welcomed the development. Steve Davies, landlord, said he has had a lot of positive feedback about the plans.

The current lease on the building runs out next November.

To hire the hall call Kellie on 07342 651557.

  • Last week we referred to the building as being empty when in fact the function hall is available to hire and the arcade, once refurbished, is set to re-open in March.

We would like to apologise for the error and any confusion caused.