The Brent Council’s decision to approve the conversion of a former bank into a bingo hall has sparked significant debate.
The building, located at the junction of Walm Lane and High Road in Willesden, was previously occupied by Lloyds Bank until its closure in March 2024. Despite receiving 126 objections, primarily concerning the high density of gambling establishments in the area, the council has granted planning permission. This decision is subject to specific conditions, including a restriction on noise levels, ensuring they do not exceed 10dB when measured from the nearest noise-sensitive property.
The proposal involves changing the use of the basement and ground floor from a vacant bank to a bingo hall, with alterations to the front elevation at ground floor level. The project is being developed by Star Commercial Property Ltd, with architectural design by Colneside Design Ltd, and will be operated by Golden Slots (Southern) Ltd.
This approval follows a similar application by the Luton-based firm, previously known as Las Vegas Bingo Limited, to convert another disused bank site into an adult gaming centre. The decision highlights ongoing tensions between development interests and community concerns over gambling proliferation in the area.
Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash
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