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.