An arcade in the popular seaside town of Skegness has been given a quote of £500,000 for its energy bills for the year. The Lings Oasis Amusement Arcade is located on the Grand Parade among many of the bars, food stalls and arcades.
Lings has already noticed an increase in energy bills but due to the nature of the business, it uses a lot more energy than most average businesses. The director, Johnathon Ling spoke with Lincolnshire Live and said they have been told the bills could reach £500,000 for the year from October 31.
This would be a huge increase from the previous bills of £350,000. Mr Ling is concerned that this could mean redundancies and potential closure.
"We will make people redundant and close," Mr Ling said as he spoke between appointments. "I am waiting for the next clown to get in charge and then see," he added, referring to the Conservative leadership contest due to finish on Monday, September 5.
Head of HR and PR Jade Pocklington also expressed concern about the statement.
She said: "It's a bit of a concern, especially when you hear the words 'redundancies' and 'closure.' We are feeling it, because we are homeowners and we have bills to pay.
"If we lose our jobs it's going to be difficult." Mrs Pocklington said there is no way to cut back on energy in an arcade, because it is so reliant on it.
Other expenses are factors as well, such as a gaming license and people's wages. "The only thing he could do is close the doors," she said. Arcades are a staple of Skegness' trade. Holidaymakers often spend time, and pennies, on the slot machines in the hope of winning one of the prizes displayed around the building.
Retired chef, John Sterling, 66, was visiting from Bradford with his wife. "We love this place, it's good fun," he said. "These are important places. If you are a parent, you understand. This is Skegness. It is why people come here."
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