VETERAN gamers could soon take a step back in time and enjoy the computer challenges of their childhood at a new venue in Taunton.

Continue Arcades has applied to Somerset Council for permission to create a nostalgic attraction at 36-38 East Street – formerly Peacocks and Suite Dreams – which has been vacant for around 18 months.

The firm runs the Continue? ‘retro gaming lounge’ in Plymouth’s Royal Parade, offering visitors the chance to play arcade games from yesteryear, such as Donkey Kong, Outrun, Guitar Hero and more.

Now, the company is hoping to expand to Taunton, with a change of use application for the premises submitted.

“The proposal will bring a new entertainment use to a vacant unit in a prominent position within the city centre,” the application, submitted by James Wells Planning (JWP) on behalf of Continue Arcades, said.

“This type of use aims to diversify the role of the city centre in being a destination for leisure activities.

“A main town centre use is proposed and will act as a complimentary use to the overall function of the city centre.”

As well as offering retro games, the venue would also feature a bar for customers.

The Continue? venue in Plymouth offers open access for players, as well as private hire, parties and tournaments to gamers and revellers.

The application will now be considered by Somerset Council planners. For more details, and to comment on the scheme, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search for application reference 38/24/0325.