Willesden Green Lloyds Bank replacement by Bingo Hall opposed by residents but supported by Brent Planning Officers - decision at Planning Committee on Wednesday February 12th

1 Walm Lane, Willesden Green

 Despite opposition from the Willesden Green Town Team, a local ward councillor and 124 residents Brent Planning Officers are recommending approval of a change of use of the Lloyds Bank building at 1 Walm Lane to a Bingo Hall:

 The proposed change of use to a bingo hall accords with the Council's adopted policies as it falls within a main town centre use. Minor external changes are proposed to the shopfront of the site, for which there are no impacts with regards to the character and appearance of the conservation area. Subject to conditions to limit opening hours to protect the neighbouring occupiers, the use will sufficiently protect neighbouring amenity. Furthermore, subject to transport related conditions, the use will provide the required servicing needs and cycle storage facilities for the users of the premises.

The 'limited hours' are 8am-11pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 11pm on Saturday Sunday, Bank Holidays and Public Holidays.

The applicants are warned that installation of adult gaming machines could result in a change of use requiring planning planning permission. 

Here are a selection of objections from the Brent Council Planning Portal I  could see no submissions supporting the application.

 

I object because there are already too many gambling shops. There is one across the road and a new one has opened opposite the existing Bingo Hall in Cricklewood. There are multiple deprivation issues already such as increased homelessness and people overtly taking drugs involving needles during the daytime in Willesden Green. It is becoming increasingly unsafe to walk around and a gambling shop serves to increase issues linked to deprivation. Furthermore this is a prime location next to Marsh and Parsons, near the Butchers and opposite the lovely independent shops on the parade. It is completely out of keeping.. The area will suffer suffer economic decline with a gambling hall and attempts to improve the area will be negatively impacted. This is such an irresponsible planning application I am staggered it is even being humoured. It is utterly depressing to witness the lack of consideration for the social and economic uplift of the area.

 

As a resident, I have seen first hand the levels of deprivation on our high street, made worse after the pandemic. The area has a number of properties that house vulnerable individuals suffering from addiction, mental health and other issues.

Willesden Green is also densely populated with large numbers of families and young children who commute along the high street to school, afterschool clubs and via the bus and underground stations. Not far from the proposed Bingo Hall, is Willesden Green Library another hub for residents, children and young adults.

This proposed site for a Bingo Hall is located only a few doors down from another six gambling and gaming shops.

A Bingo Hall gambling venue is not what Willesden Green high street needs. The area is crying out for other services and businesses, and this would do nothing to serve the community, it is not family-friendly, it will not attract investment or otherwise benefit the area. It would simply take advantage of already vulnerable people, to put money into the pockets of Star Commerical Property Ltd.

Please ensure that our high street doesn't turn into a casino filled dive that attracts more crime, antisocial behaviour and drives people further into poverty. Please reject this and any future applications by this and other gambling companies.

 

 

HOORAY AT LONG LAST!



WHAT WILLESDEN IS CRYING OUT FOR IS ANOTHER GAMBLING DEN OF MISERY FOR THE GOOD PEOPLE OF BRENT TO BE EXPLOITED BY.



AFTER ALL WHO NEEDS BANKS WHEN YOU CAN WALK 6 MINUTES FROM ONE LADBROKES TO ANOTHER AND PASS SIX DIFFERENT BOOKMAKERS, BINGO HALLS AND FIXED ODDS BETTING SHOPS ALONG THE WAY? THIS BY ANY MEASURE IS A CLUSTER.



THERE ARE SOUND PLANNING REASONS TO REJECT THIS APPLICATION, BASED ON BRENT'S DUTY TO PROTECT ITS RESIDENTS FROM CLUSTERS LIKE THIS AND FROM OVERSEAS TAX EVADING HEDGE FUND DODGERS WHO'LL SHUFFLE OUR CASH TO THE SEYCHELLES BEFORE YOU CAN UTTER THE WORDS "ISN'T IT ABOUT TIME BRENT COUNCIL GOT RID OF THE EMBARRASSMENT OF A LEADER AND GET SOMEBODY IN WHO IS RESPECTED BY RESIDENTS"



BRENT AND IT'S COUNCILLORS ARE OVERSEEING THE HOLLOWING OUT OF WILLESDEN SO I AM FULLY SUPPORTIVE OF THIS PLAN AS ANOTHER MEANS TO HIGHLIGHT THEIR ONGOING INEPTITUDE AND AMBIVALENCE TOWARDS RESIDENTS (AND VOTERS).

 

As one of the local ward Councillors, I am writing to object to this application. I do so on the following grounds:



1) High density of existing gambling establishments



The site is in close proximity to existing adult gaming centres and gambling establishments (Royal Casino Slots at 9 Walm Lane, and Merkur slots at 51 High Road). Both of these establishments are within less than a minute's walk from the site.



In addition, Labbrokes and Paddy Power betting shops are within a similar walking distance.



Policy BE5 calls for "no more than 1 unit or 10% of the neighbourhood parade frontage, whichever is the greater, consisting of betting shops, adult gaming centres or pawnbrokers/payday loan shops;". The committee should consider whether this has been met before considering approval.



2) Risk of crime and antisocial behaviour



Walm Lane and Willesden High Road currently show as one of the areas in Brent with the highest incidence of street crime and antisocial behaviour, and recent statistic collected by the Police Safer Neighbourhood Team indicate that this is escalating faster than elsewhere in the borough. In the recent past, particular issues such as street drinking have been clearly identified with local gambling establishments. In addition, the obscured windows of domination by bright signage which is typical to adult gaming centres would create an unwelcoming building on the street scene, lacking in transparency and creating a general feeling of economic deprivation which lends itself to further crime and ASB.



3) Signage and lights



I believe that bright signage and lights on the shop front would be disruptive to residents in the accommodation opposite.

We are writing to vehemently object to the proposed development of a "Bingo Hall" at 1 Walm Lane.

First, according to the Statement of Principles for Gambling 2025-2028 posted on Brent's website, Brent Council claims that its vision and priorities are, "Prosperity and Stability in Brent...Thriving Communities...[and] A Healthier Brent." The Council also claims it is committed to "working hard to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour."

The addition of yet another gambling centre on Walm Lane actively works against every single one of these published goals and commitments.

Beyond the fact that the addition of a bingo hall on this site violates Brent's visions and priorities - its promises to the community - we further object for the following reasons:

No Need for More Gambling: Prioritize Community Growth Instead: There are already at least four gambling establishments on Walm Lane. Adding yet another does not add to the prosperity of the community; there are already more than needed. This space could be used to bring in a business that would add to the economic and social growth of the community, as opposed to detracting from it. By allowing another gambling hall to open, Walm Lane risks losing its potential for sustainable, long-term growth, as the area becomes less attractive to the kinds of businesses and residents that contribute to a "prosperous, stable" community.

Negative Impact of Gambling on Local Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour:
Current research clearly shows that neighbourhoods with a higher concentration of betting shops and bingo halls tend to experience higher crime rates. Over the past two years, our neighbourhood has already seen a rise in anti-social behaviour, to the point where it feels unsafe to walk to and from the tube station outside daylight hours. If Brent Council is genuinely committed to reducing crime and promoting community safety, it should prevent the addition of another gaming establishment and instead encourage businesses that would have a positive impact on the area.

Preservation of Neighbourhood Character:

Adding another gambling site diminishes the community's character and neighbourhood feel, making it less inviting and safe.

Consideration of Local Population (including children):

Willesden Green is home to a growing number of families with children, and there is a school around the corner from the proposed bingo hall, as well as a community library just a block away. The Gambling Licensing Policy Consultation 2025-2028 states that gaming establishments should avoid areas where children are present, like schools, and highlights the need to protect vulnerable populations from harm. Adding another gambling centre to Walm Lane would undermine these goals. If Brent Council truly wants its communities to thrive, it would support using this space in ways that benefit families and align with the area's changing demographics. There are far more positive and productive uses for this location.
In addition, gambling establishments are linked to rising public health concerns, including gambling addiction, which can strain local support services and create long-term challenges for the community. These risks extend to vulnerable populations, including families, youth, and those facing financial hardship."

Impact on Local Economy and Businesses:

The addition of this gambling hall would have a negative ripple effect on local businesses and restaurants. Unlike businesses that encourage community engagement and attract a wide range of customers, gambling halls tend to draw a limited, repeat clientele who do not spend their money in other local businesses. Also, areas with multiple gambling establishments often see an uptick in vacant storefronts, as increased crime rates and anti-social behaviour stop new business owners from investing in the area. Over time, this shift makes the area feel less family-friendly and appealing, impacting property values and the overall economic health of the neighbourhood. Brent would be better served occupying the space with a store or service the community wants and needs.

Objecting to this proposal is in alignment with the abovementioned goals of Brent Council, and we hope the Council seriously considers this objection.

 

Subject: Objection to the Proposed Conversion of Lloyds Bank, 1 Walm Lane, NW2, to a Bingo Hall


I am writing to formally object to the proposed plan submitted by Star Commercial Property Limited to convert the former Lloyds Bank building at 1 Walm Lane, NW2, into a bingo hall. This proposal raises significant concerns for the community and does not align with the area's essential needs and character. Below are key reasons for my objection:

1. Loss of Essential Banking Services

With the recent closures of Lloyds and NatWest branches in Willesden Green and the impending closure of Barclays, the local community will be left entirely without a banking institution. For many residents-particularly seniors, those with limited internet access, and small business owners-access to in-person banking services is vital. The conversion of the last remaining bank building into a bingo hall does not serve these residents' needs, who will now have to travel farther for essential financial services, potentially leading to financial exclusion.

2. Mismatch with Community Needs and Character

Willesden Green is a vibrant area that would greatly benefit from developments that meet practical and daily needs, such as community spaces, affordable retail, or wellness services. A bingo hall does not serve the local demographic as effectively as a mixed-use community facility or a more versatile commercial space. Given its central location, this building has the potential to offer services that foster community engagement and improve the quality of life for local residents, aligning with the area's long-standing character.

3. Potential for Increased Noise and Traffic Disruption

A bingo hall is likely to generate increased noise and foot traffic, especially during evening hours. This could disrupt the residential nature of nearby areas and lead to parking and congestion issues. By contrast, a community center or similar facility would likely result in less disturbance and would better support the area's long-term social fabric and residential appeal.

4. Limited Economic and Social Value to the Community

The proposed bingo hall may not offer substantial economic or social benefits compared to alternative uses. Many residents would likely prefer a development that offers better employment opportunities, educational or training services, or local business spaces, which could add greater long-term value to Willesden Green. Additionally, the presence of a bingo hall may not attract diverse foot traffic, which local businesses need to thrive.

5. Negative Impact on Nearby Businesses

The conversion could impact the character and perception of the area, potentially deterring higher-quality investments that would better align with Willesden Green's evolving needs. Establishing a bingo hall as a focal business risks changing the area's reputation, which may dissuade other valuable businesses from opening or remaining nearby, resulting in an overall decline in the area's economic appeal.

6. Alternative Community-Driven Uses

Given the bank's historical and architectural value, repurposing the building to serve as a community or multi-functional space (e.g., a community hub or co-working space) could honor its heritage while better serving the community's needs. A space dedicated to various local activities could provide a vital resource for residents of all ages and could be a meaningful way to sustain the building's legacy and utility.



In summary, the proposal to convert this essential bank building into a bingo hall does not align with the long-term needs and values of Willesden Green residents. I strongly urge the Brent Planning Authority to consider alternative proposals that would provide essential services, maintain the area's character, and support the community's overall well-being.