Gaming arcade approved for old legal office

A former solicitor's office is set to become a computer gaming arcade.

Plans have been approved to change the property in Stockton into Arcade Time Machine, a centre of retro and modern games and machines.

One person had objected under the mistaken belief it would be a gambling or betting shop, but planning officers at Stockton Council said it would actually be a "family-friendly leisure gaming arcade".

The High Street building stopped operating as an office in September 2025. The arcade would be open daily from 10:00 to 22:00.

The council's report on the proposal said it would "provide a range of retro and modern gaming experiences, including arcade machines, gaming consoles, and PC gaming stations" over two floors, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Officers said the plan submitted by Jonathan Gouder would offer "diversification" to the town centre while also being able to "sit comfortably" in its location.

It would "introduce an active town centre use" while bringing a long-term vacant unit back into use and supporting footfall throughout the day and early evening", officers concluded.

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