D Day for Willesden Green Adult Gaming Centre tomorrow. Licensing Committee 10.30am Civic Centre. Inperson or on-line

 

Having got through Planning Committee, with a change from Bingo Hall to Adult Gaming Centre, the applicants are at Brent Licensing Committee tomorrow applying for a gambling licence for the former Lloyds Bank at 1 Walm Lane, Willesden Green.

On Sunday afternoon there was a community demonstration on the traffic island opposite the building. People held up placards with quotes from the many objections to the application.

I took part in the protest

 

At a community meeting earlier this week called  by the police and Brent Council, residents expressed concerns about the deterioration of their neighbourhood, especially in terms of personal safety. Council leader Muhammed Butt attended but did not speak.

There are 245 documents on the Licensing Committee agenda for this application that will be heard tomorrow morning 10.30am at Brent Civic Centre - a lot of reading for Committee members.

There is a document from the police that declares them satisfied with the 24 undertakings given by the applicant and therefore making no representations to the Committee. That document is dated 16th April 2026 - a lot has happened in the area since then but no revised document has been submitted at the time of writing.

Cllr Mary Mitchell (Green, Willesden Green ward) has submitted an up to date statement that is the last on the list of 245 documents. It deserves wider circulation and I reproduce it below: 

  

Supplementary Statement from Councillor Mary Mitchell, Ward Councillor for

Willesden Green Application 37891 – Adult Gaming Centre, 1 Walm Lane, NW2 5SN

 

Having reviewed the applicant's supplementary submission, I wish to draw the Committee's attention to a number of matters which I believe require careful consideration alongside the representations already submitted by residents and community organisations.

 

1. I am concerned by the applicant's characterisation of resident objections. The fact that many representations raise similar concerns should not diminish the weight attached to them. Residents are responding to the same proposal within the framework of the statutory licensing objectives and it is therefore unsurprising that common themes emerge. The consistency of concerns relating to vulnerability, gambling harm, crime and anti-social behaviour is, in my view, indicative of the  depth and breadth of local concern rather than evidence that those concerns should be discounted.

 

2. I am concerned by the extent to which the applicant seeks to challenge or minimise the relevance of Brent's public health evidence, including the severe risk of suicidality and mental health denigration linked to gambling addiction. These documents have been developed to help the Council understand local need, deprivation and risk. The Committee should carefully consider whether the applicant has adequately engaged with this evidence when assessing the suitability of the proposed location and the effectiveness of the mitigation measures offered.

 

3. I ask the committee to consider the applicant’s remarks about the regulatory framework as ‘costly’, citing initial fees of £1400 and annual regulatory costs exceeding £1500 alongside the true cost of gambling borne by the people of Brent.

According to independent data from GambleAware, gambling-related harm costs the Brent infrastructure an estimated £18 million annually across emergency housing, mental health services and criminal justice interventions.

 

4. The applicant attempts to placate the committee by offering restricted opening hours. However, it is a well-established tactical playbook for Adult Gambling Centres to secure a foothold in a community with compromised hours, only to apply for a 24-hour extension shortly after, as demonstrated in the very case law the applicant cites. The applicant provides no binding permanent reassurance that they will not aggressively pursue a 24-hour rollout after the premise is up and running.

 

5. Since my original representation was submitted, further incidents of anti-social behaviour, violence, and the tragic murder of a 15-year old boy have been reported within the immediate vicinity of the proposed site, which compromise even further the position that a gambling premise would not cause harm to vulnerable individuals and increase crime and disorder.

 

These include:

 

• The murder of Jamal Ringrose, on Dudden Hill Lane on 30/05/26 (CAD9258/30MAY)

• An assault, under investigation, near Willesden Green train station on 31/05/26 (CAD6615/31MAY)

• An assault, under investigation, near Willesden Green train station on 07/06/26 (CAD 969/7JUN)

 

I do not suggest that the proposed premises would be directly responsible for such incidents. However, I believe the Committee should consider this evidence as part of its wider assessment of the local environment and whether the licensing objective of protecting vulnerable persons from harm can be adequately upheld at this location.

More than 200 representations have been submitted in opposition to this application. Taken together, these representations raise serious concerns regarding the suitability of this location for an Adult Gaming Centre and the potential impact on vulnerable members of the community.

I therefore respectfully ask the Committee to give careful consideration to the cumulative weight of the evidence before it and to satisfy itself that the licensing objectives can be upheld before any licence is granted.

 

 The meeting will now be viewable on line here: 

When clicking the link, there is no requirement to enter your email address, on the 18 June at 10.30am, click ‘Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub Committee’ to view.
 
https://brent.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/1102285

 

Brent Planning Committee approves Adult Gaming Centre for former Lloyds Bank in Willesden Green

 Readers may remember that having gained planning permission for a 'Bingo Hall' at the former Llouds Bank on the corner of High Road and Walm Lane, Willesden Green, the applicant came back with a new application to turn the former bank premises into an Adult Gaming Centre. LINK

Yesterday's diminished Planning Committee approved the application by 4 votes to one. 

Cllr Matt Kelcher, the Committee Chair advised that due to his publicly stated position against the provision of gambling establishments within the borough and to avoid any allegations of bias or pre-determination he would recluse himself. Councillor Johnson had declared a personal disclosable interest and therefore withdrew from the meeting for the consideration of that item.

 

The possibility of reducing the hours to an 10pm closure, that than the 'night time economy' 11pm limit was discussed but not adopted. 

 

Cllr Dixon was the lone voice against on grounds of the opposition from locoal residents, mpact on a conservation area, not contributing to the vibrancy of the high street and a failure to provide healthy streets amongst others.

 

56 residents had made submission against the application and Dawn Butler MP (Brent East) made a late intervention that necessitated a Supplementary Report. Butler has raised the issue of the impact on vulnerable Brent residents of so many gambling joints, in the House of Commons.

 

Officers were rather dismissive:

 

One further representation with comments has been received raising objection to the proposed development. The objections are from Dawn Butler MP (Labour Member of Parliament for Brent East). The comments that have been raised broadly correspond to those already received and addressed within the Consultations section of the Committee Report. The comments raised refer to existing gambling problems and impacts within the borough. It is suggested that limited information pertaining to the building has been provided, however it is considered that sufficient information has been submitted in line with the Council’s Validation requirements for the purpose of planning assessment.

 

Finally, the concluding objection is directed to the ‘Licencing Authority’. In response, Licencing is an independent department to Planning within the Council. As well as seeking planning permission the applicant would be required to obtain the relevant licences to operate as an Adult Gaming Centre. An informative to this effect would be included within the Decision Notice.

 

So next stop is Brent Licensing Committee. 

 

Opposition builds to Willesden Green Adult Gaming Centre

Oppositon is building to the new application to convert the Lloyd's Bank buidling at 1 Walm Lane, Willesden Green into an Adult Gaming Centre. See Wembley Matters story HERE.

Cllr Saqlain Choudry took to Next Door to urge local residents to object:

Willesden Green does not need another gambling establishment or betting premise. I strongly object to the proposed adult gaming centre (formerly Lloyds bank). Our community deserves investment in spaces that promote positive activities for all ages — not venues that could encourage addiction. Please make your voices heard and comment by emailing the planning department at Brent Council or commenting on the planning application portal. LINK

The letter asks the council Planning Department to reject the application rather than councillor members of the Planning Committee,

 

Another ward councillor writes;

 I strongly object to this proposal.

There would be five gambling premises in a short stretch of road - 2 Ladbrokes, Paddy Power, the new site, and the current adult gaming centre.

This is too much and the combined effect is hollowing out our High Street.

As a local Councillor I am profoundly concerned by this.

I am even more concerned that this application turns a bingo hall into an adult gaming centre. The lack of change to he floor plan shows that the initial application was made on a morally fraudulent basis, and insult to the integrity of the committee and its members.

Adult gaming centres replace social gambling with highly individualised and algorithmically driven forms of gambling, which seek to spur addiction and take advantage of vulnerable clients. It allows higher stakes than bingo, and because of the non-social nature increases the risk of localised antisocial behaviour, directly outside the site of two recent ASB related stabbings.

This application should not be looked upon kindly and should not be allowed to proceed. The committee should do everything in its legal powers to prevent its progress.

Many thanks to those who will consider this objection. I would encourage them to also take into account the volume of feeling against this from local residents.

 

In all so far there are  37 objections (one is wrongly classified as 'Supports'). This objection may strike a chord with many residents:

 I am writing as a local resident to strongly object to the proposed conversion of the former bank premises in Willesden Green into a casino or bingo hall. As a young woman living nearby, I am deeply concerned about the implications this type of venue will have on the safety, wellbeing, and character of our community.

Over the past few months, I have already noticed a troubling rise in antisocial behaviour in the area. There has been an observable increase in public drunkenness, drug use, and drug dealing in and around Willesden Green, including on my own street. This has made me-and many others-feel significantly less safe walking alone, particularly at night. I have experienced and witnessed incidents of sexual harassment in broad daylight, and these occurrences are becoming more frequent. The addition of a gambling venue with late-night operating hours will only exacerbate these issues.

Casinos and similar gambling establishments are well-documented in their association with increased rates of crime and antisocial behaviour. Numerous studies and case histories from other parts of the UK indicate that areas surrounding such venues often see spikes in petty crime, drug-related offences, loitering, and harassment. This type of environment poses a very real threat to residents, especially women and young people. I already avoid walking alone past certain areas in the evening-bringing in a venue that typically attracts intoxicated and vulnerable individuals late into the night will only make this worse.

Beyond safety, the proposed development raises major concerns about the character and future of Willesden Green. Our area is home to a vibrant and diverse community of families, small business owners, elderly residents, and working professionals. What Willesden Green needs are services and spaces that support this community: affordable housing, youth services, libraries, childcare, green spaces, and accessible cultural or educational venues. A gambling outlet offers none of this. Instead, it threatens to erode the fabric of our high street, attracting predatory business models and potentially displacing more beneficial local services.

Moreover, venues like casinos and bingo halls often prey on the most economically vulnerable in society. In a borough like Brent, where many residents are already living with financial precarity, allowing a gambling outlet to operate in the heart of Willesden Green sends entirely the wrong message. Rather than investing in social support and community enrichment, it risks fuelling addiction, debt, and mental health problems-all of which ultimately place further pressure on local services, healthcare, and policing.

This proposal also runs counter to the council's stated commitments to equality, public health, and inclusive neighbourhood development. If Brent is serious about building safe, resilient, and inclusive communities, this application should be firmly rejected.

Finally, there is the issue of planning precedent. There is already a similar establishment a few doors away from the proposed new development, as well as numerous similar gambling businesses in Cricklewood. The presence of yet another gambling venue in such a small geographical area may dissuade other, more community-oriented businesses from investing in the area. It could also have a negative impact on nearby property values and the perception of Willesden Green as a welcoming and safe neighbourhood.

In summary, I strongly urge you to reject this application on the following grounds:

- **Increased crime and antisocial behaviour** associated with gambling venues;

- **Public safety concerns**, particularly for women and vulnerable residents;

- **Recent local rise in harassment, drug use, and intoxication** that such a venue will likely worsen;

- **Negative impact on the area's social and economic fabric**, including risks to mental health, wellbeing, and community cohesion;

- **Contradiction of Brent Council's wider social and urban development goals**.

Please act to protect the wellbeing of residents and preserve the integrity of our neighbourhood by rejecting this proposal.

 

Note that if you submit  a comment by email only your address and whether you Object or Support appears on the Planning Portal. If you submit via the portal HERE your full comment appears so enabling other residents to read it.

 

 

It's 'BINGO!' for gambling company as Willesden Green swaps a bank for a bingo hall following Planning Committee approval

 

The planning application for a Bingo Hall to replace the Willesden Green branch of Lloyds Bank was approved at last night's Planning Committee despite widespread opposition from local residents and from ward councillors.

The vote was 4 in favour, 2 against and 1 abstention in line with the Planning Officers; recommendation to approve.

On Next Door  Cllr Saqlain Choudry indicated that current legislation was preventing the Planning Committee from refusing such applications:

There is an urgent need for legislative reform. The leader of council has in previous months written to the relevant Minister asking for more powers and greater clarity in legislation to prevent and block these harmful practices. It is shocking that there is no limit on how many bingo halls can open and other loopholes in the legal and planning framework that allows these practices to continue.

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.

 

 

 

Willesden Green: From Bank to Bingo Hall. Planning application submitted for ex-Lloyds Bank

 

Lloyds Bank, 1 Walm Lane, NW2

Following closure both Lloyds Bank and Nat West branches in Willesden Green are on the development market. Barclays opposite the Lloyd's building is due to close shortly leaving the area without a bank.

The Lloyds building is the first to come to Brent Planning with a proposal to turn into a Bingo Hall from Luton based Star Commercial Property Limited. LINK.

Apart from changes in the internal layout  and an additional window replacing the cashpoints there is little change.

 

Plans were lodged yesterday and the deadline for responses is November 25th 2024. LINK to website or email planning.comments@brent.gov.uk The Reference number is 24/2877

The application envisages 8 fulltime equivalent employees with the operating hours 8am to 12.30am  Monday to Friday, 9am to 1am Saturday and 9am to 12.30am Sunday.

Willesden Green will be without any banks at all as Barclays announce closure

 Barclays has announced that it is to close its Willesden Green branch on May 3rd The closure announcement follows those for the town centre's National Westminster and Lloyds banks and leaves the area with no bank at all.

Barclays closed its Cricklewood branch some time ago.

This will reinforce the case for a LINK banking hub in Willesden Green that was made by loca ward councillors. LINK

 

Willesden Green councillors oppose the bank closures 'blight' on small businesses and the elderly

 

Wembley Matters published a letter LINK on January 12th setting out the impact of the closure of the Willesden Green branch of National Westminster Bank on the elderly, disabled and those without internet access.

 

It was good to hear thatWillesden Green councillors, Tom Miller, Janice Long and Saqlain Choudry had taken up the issue. with the banks

 

This is their letter in full:

 

We are writing to express our serious concern and disappointment over the announcement to close two bank branches – Lloyds and NatWest – in Willesden Green, both of which are due to close by the end of March this year. With uncertainty over the future of other branches looming, too, Willesden Green has now fallen victim to the surge of branch closures that is blighting local small businesses, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups. 

 

This is very disappointing news, especially given how NatWest has been rooted in the community; and there is real risk that cash provision and access to basic services will be severely affected. We have been contacted by several residents who have expressed their apprehension over this decision.

 

High street bank closures have become an epidemic in the last few years, with over half of bank branches in the UK shutting their doors in the eight years since the Conservatives came to government in 2015. There are now just 3,200 remaining in England – and Willesden Green and Brent are no exception to these dwindling numbers. The banks are a vital point for the community. These closures are yet another nail in the coffin for the UK’s high street banking infrastructure and will see some towns lose more than one bank within a matter of days or weeks – suggesting little thought has been given to the impact on the communities they serve. 

 

Many people, particularly older people and those with disabilities, need access to physical banking services which go much further than access to cash. It’s often about having a real person to talk to, especially for those individuals with serious financial concerns and who are unable to make the transition to an entirely digitised banking system. Trust is greatly enhanced by personal contact, and greatly reduced when there is none. Some services do require in-person verification, and safety concerns over potential financial abuse are often better spotted when customers are able to use these essential face-to-face services. Many local businesses also bank with NatWest, so the feeling of regularity and social interaction will be omitted in other branches. Do you plan to hold sessions for residents explaining the impact of the closure and advising customers further, especially on the more complex, in-person banking operations? Are both NatWest and Lloyds willing to meet with senior management, cabinet lead and local councillors at Brent Council to discuss the implications on residents? 

 

We, of course, understand that regular reviews are a necessary part of business operation, particularly as we move to a more digital world. But we are very disappointed in the lack of consultation with local councillors and residents on this closure. There has been a distinct lack of visibility and inclusion on surveys and feedback from both NatWest and Lloyds, and we have not seen any detailed data regarding the decision to close. Are NatWest and Lloyds willing to share with us any additional data or metrics they have collected that led to the decision to close? Were the views of local councillors or the local authority taken into account at all in this decision? 

 

Communication has been minimal, reasoning obscure, and not enough consideration given to alternative provisions. Residents have told us that they have been advised to use branches elsewhere – such as in Kilburn High Road, Golders Green, and Swiss Cottage – but longer travel times will make journeys more difficult or impossible for some. We are also concerned about a wave of potential job losses with these continued closures, and would welcome some reassurance on the future of your current team members in the Willesden Green branches. 

 

It is clear that, if these closures are unequivocally going ahead in Willesden Green as they are elsewhere in the UK, an alternative course is needed. The Social Market Foundation found that 7 million people, most of them older and poorer, do all their banking in their local high street branch. But it’s not just these groups: research from LINK has found that around a quarter of Britons still use cash at least once a week, and about 10% of the country use it daily. The latest figures from the British Retail Consortium also show that shopping with cash has risen for the first time in a decade, as household budgets are increasingly stretched and the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite. At the same time, over half of bank branches have closed, and the Conservatives’ rollout of banking hubs has been much delayed. 

 

The rollout has been painfully slow, leaving many communities to become banking deserts. This has become a particular problem in town centres and on high streets such as ours in Willesden Green. The current plans are totally inadequate for creating a much-needed national network of accessible services, and so we are pleased that the Labour Party have recently committed to accelerating the rollout of banking hubs where people can deposit and take out cash, as well as access wider banking services, as part of our Plan for Small Business. The hubs are designed to be shared by major banks, so customers from almost every bank will be able to use them. 

 

The weakness of the current banking hub system is its voluntary character. It arguably shows the weakness of the present regulation when banks are closing thousands of their branches all around the country, withdrawing services to their customers, and then promising banking hubs that they are under no obligation to introduce. The current protocol between lenders and the Government is toothless, and so we support the Shadow Chancellor’s calls for stronger additional powers for the FCA. When a local community demonstrates need and meets the relevant criteria, a banking hub ought to be guaranteed. Considering the shift Willesden Green is about to undergo, we believe that this will be the best course to steer for us as a community. 

 

We therefore will be submitting a formal request to LINK to undertake a review of Willesden Green in light of these branch closures, asking that they assess the viability of opening a banking hub to guarantee that local residents and independent businesses still have access to these essential services. As Labour councillors, we will continue to fight for our communities and ensure that no one is left behind.