West London Borough Turns Down Proposed New Casino, Complete With Slot Machines
In the bustling heart of west London's Brent borough, the planning committee has once again thwarted Silvertime Amusements Limited's plan to transform a former bookmaker's site into a slot machine casino —making this the third rejection. The area, housing approximately 17,000 residents, has already earned the local moniker of 'London's Las Vegas' due to its six adult gaming centers from brands like Ladbrokes, William Hill, and Paddy Power.
Recently, the closure of a nearby pawnbroker seemed to open an opportunity for Silvertime Amusements Limited to build another gambling outlet on Park Parade's central thoroughfare. However, the proposal for a sports betting shop and an adult gaming center was met with rejection over 'over-concentration' concerns. Despite planning officers recommending approval, the local planning committee objected, with councillors Matt Kelcher, Mili Patel, and Jumbo Chan expressing strong opposition following a July demonstration against the proposal.
Patel voiced her concern that the new slot machine casino, less than 200 yards from existing Silvertime Amusements Limited sites, would contribute to anti-social behavior, and the harms would outweigh any potential benefits. She explained that adult gaming centers often prey upon vulnerable individuals, contradicting Brent's policy aimed at preventing the over-concentration of gambling dens.
In their application, Silvertime Amusements Limited argued that their proposed Park Parade enterprise would bolster Harlesden's nightlife with minimal impact on retail activity or the community's central shopping area. However, Kelcher expressed optimism that the committee's decision would attract independent coffee shops and stores rather than gambling enterprises that prey on vulnerable members of society.
Kelcher applauded the committee's decision, stating that it sends a clear message that Harlesden can flourish by catering to local businesses instead of gambling establishments. He applauded the progress made by the local police in curbing anti-social behavior in the area and expressed hope that the landlords would seek new tenants who align with this vision.
The ongoing debate about gambling trends in Harlesden, Brent, has led councillor Mili Patel to voice her concerns about another casino-and-gambling venture by Silvertime Amusements Limited, citing potential anti-social behavior and the targeting of vulnerable individuals. Despite Silvertime Amusements Limited's proposal for a casino-games center aiming to bolster Harlesden's nightlife, the local planning committee's decision continues to support the establishment of independent businesses, contradicting the over-concentration of gambling trends in the area.
