A BOWLING alley in Basildon town centre has closed suddenly amid speculation it is to be redeveloped into flats.

Basildon Bowl, in North Pavement, included 20 bowling lanes, five pool tables and a Quasar indoor laser arena.

But the centre announced on Friday it was closing with immediately due to a long-running dispute over rent payments.

In a statement, the alley’s management said: “It is with deep sadness and regret that the team at Basildon Bowl and Quasar Centre have to announce that the bowling centre has closed.

“As most bowlers will know, we have continued to be committed to the centre despite being hoarded up for four years, a long recession and difficult times for bowling as a sport.

“A historic dispute over rent has enabled the landlords to take back the centre without any notice.”

An application to change office space in North Pavement to 87 flats was refused by Basildon Council in July, and the alley’s operators believe there are similar plans mooted for the alley.

The statement added: “Planning permission to turn the above office block into flats is progressing and it is understood that the bowling centre is eventually to be re-developed “for another purpose”.

“The team at Basildon Bowl and Quasar can only apologise for any inconvenience caused to our league bowlers and families who have enjoyed coming to the centre over the years and have become our friends.

“It is a sad day, another bowling centre closes but we can hold up our heads and say we tried our best with what we had.”

On the alley’s Facebook page, users expressed their disappointment at the closure.

Carla Andrews said: “That is so sad that our town has lost such a great centre. Was always delighted with the fantastic value and service from staff.”