Brent Council has refused Star Commercial Property a licence to operate the former Lloyds bank unit on Willesden high street as a gaming centre, after 200 people signed a petition objecting to the proposal.
Star was first granted permission to open a bingo hall on the site in early 2025, before a second application to open an AGC was approved in September, however the subsequent licensing application quickly became a touchpoint for local protest.
“Residents and local representatives gathered outside the Walm Lane venue last Sunday (14 June) to oppose the scheme ahead of the licensing committee’s decision,” reported My London. “They argued that the proposal would be the wrong development for the area and called for the plan to be rejected.”
“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.”
Local councillor Saqlain Choudry described the council’s decision as “a victory for local people.”
“Together, we have shown that when our community speaks with one voice, it can make a real difference.”
Fellow councillor Mary Mitchell said “our high streets should be places that bring people together, supporting local businesses, community life and a thriving local economy.”
Star is expected to appeal the decision – and the appeal is likely to succeed, not least because rejection on the grounds that you don’t like gambling is not a valid reason. Neither is the unsubstantiated association to anti-social and criminal behaviour as evidenced by the view of the Institute of Licensing which told Coinslot three weeks ago that gambling establishments do not cause any issues in these areas.
Originally published on Coinslot on June 29, 2026. Republished with permission.