Bianca Jagger Leads Opposition to 24/7 Gambling Arcade Relocation in West London
Human rights advocate Bianca Jagger is spearheading a campaign against the proposed relocation of a West London gambling arcade to a highly visible spot on Earl's Court Road, where it would operate around the clock. Silvertime Amusements, an adult gaming centre, has applied to move its existing venue to a larger site at 177-179 Earl's Court Road, surrendering its current licence for 169 Earl's Court Road.
Objections Over Visibility and Saturation
In a formal objection letter dated March 23, Jagger, who was married to Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger in the 1970s, argued that the new location is inappropriate for a 24/7 gambling venue. "Silvertime's existing site is discreet. The proposed site would be highly visible, with approximately quadruple the window space in a prime location within the core area of Earl's Court," she wrote.
Jagger raised concerns about the saturation of betting establishments in the area, questioning why such a move would be permitted in Earl's Court when it might not be allowed in other parts of the borough. "This is the wrong place for this business and contributing to the saturation of betting and AGCs within several meters of one another," she added.
Community and Council Concerns
Local councillor Linda Wade has also objected to the application, proposing that the venue should not operate 24/7. She suggested closing times of 11:30 PM from Sunday to Thursday and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Wade highlighted the area's high foot traffic, proximity to schools, and vulnerability due to nearby methadone dispensaries.
"Silvertime has acquired this prime site in a core area of Earl's Court to increase its brand visibility, to increase market share, with approximately quadruple the window space of their existing site and an adult gaming centre would have a detrimental impact on the area for businesses and residents alike," Wade stated in her objection.
Silvertime's Defense and Application Details
A spokesperson for Silvertime described the application as straightforward, emphasizing that it involves relocating a long-standing venue. The new site, with a floor area of approximately 115.55 square metres, will feature gaming machines solely on the ground floor and include improved facilities. The company noted that the original venue has had no issues and will close before the new site opens.
Additionally, the proposal includes plans for new residential accommodation on the first and second floors. However, objections have been compounded by Kensington and Chelsea Council's licensing portal being offline following a cyber attack, raising concerns about resident awareness of the application.
The debate continues as the community and officials weigh the economic benefits against potential social harms in this prominent West London neighbourhood.
