Plans to licence another deeply unpopular gambling site on a North London high street have been thrown out in a big win for local residents and campaigners. The application for an adult gaming centre (AGC) licence in Willesden had received more than 200 objections, while a demonstration outside the premises took place last weekend in an act of 'community defiance' against the proliferation of gambling sites in the borough.
Community opposition and licensing decision
Residents, councillors, and MPs had all expressed disquiet at the 'frankly maddening' scheme, which many felt would 'escalate issues' with antisocial and criminal behaviour in the area. A local councillor has said the decision shows that a unified community 'can make a real difference'.
In February 2025, Brent Council approved a plan to turn the former Lloyds bank on Walm Lane into a bingo hall before the operator promptly made another planning application to convert it into an AGC – seen as a loophole to getting an AGC opened. This was approved in September 2025. With planning permission secured to convert it, the operator then sought a licence to run the premises as an AGC, which was ultimately refused by the licensing committee.
Gambling concentration in Brent
Brent has one of the highest concentrations of gambling premises in London, with 19 such businesses already located within a 1.7-mile radius of the Willesden site – outnumbering banks and medical centres combined. Due to the 'aim to permit' rule, local authorities, including Brent, have expressed frustration at feeling powerless to refuse new gambling applications, but some councils have recently been able to turn them down over concerns about their impact on local communities.
Political reaction and future implications
Following the decision, Willesden Green's Labour representative, Cllr Saqlain Choudry, welcomed the outcome, which he said reflects 'the strength of our community' after concerns were raised by residents, businesses and community organisations. Cllr Choudry added: 'While this decision is a victory for local people, it also highlights the need for stronger protections in the law. Brent Labour has long campaigned for councils to have greater powers to refuse gambling premises where they are not in the interests of the community and we will continue to press for legislative changes. Together, we have shown that when our community speaks with one voice, it can make a real difference.'
Residents and local representatives gathered outside the Walm Lane venue last Sunday (June 14) to oppose the scheme ahead of the licensing committee's decision. They argued that the proposal would be the wrong development for the area and called for the plan to be rejected. Willesden Green ward representative and leader of the Brent Greens, Cllr Mary Mitchell, said: 'Our high streets should be places that bring people together, supporting local businesses, community life and a thriving local economy.'
Despite the applicant's legal representative challenging what they claimed was a lack of proper evidence regarding the link between gambling and antisocial behaviour and crime, the committee refused the scheme. Whilst the decision could still be appealed by the applicant, the decision could help set a precedent for the council to refuse similar proposals moving forward.
