Brent rejects application for new Adult Gaming Centre

An application for a new adult gaming centre in Willesden Green has been rejected by Brent Council’s Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee.

The application by Arcadia Casino Limited was refused because it was not considered consistent with two licensing objectives under the Gambling Act 2005:

* Preventing gambling from being a source of crime and disorder, being associated with crime and disorder, or being used to support crime.
* Protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

The Sub-Committee considered evidence about crime and anti-social behaviour, the number of gambling premises already in Willesden Green, local deprivation, and the potential impact on vulnerable residents.

It also heard from Brent Public Health and five objectors, including three councillors, who raised concerns about crime and disorder linked to the number of gambling premises in the area. They noted that gambling-related harm in Brent is significantly above the national average.

More than 200 objections were submitted by residents, ward councillors and community representatives. Local concerns in Willesden Green were central to the decision.

The decision comes as Brent continues to call for councils to have stronger powers to refuse gambling premises where there is evidence of local harm. Earlier this year, Brent brought together more than 40 councils and mayors to call for reform of the Gambling Act 2005, including changes to the “aim to permit” duty, which limits councils’ ability to refuse applications.

A separate application for a new gambling premises licence on Kilburn High Road, due to be heard on 8 July 2026, has also been withdrawn.

The Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt, said: “This is an important decision for Willesden Green and for every resident who has said enough is enough.

"The Licensing Sub-Committee considered the evidence carefully and independently, including concerns about crime, anti-social behaviour, deprivation, the concentration of gambling premises and the risk of harm to vulnerable people. On that basis, it was right that this application was refused.

“Our high streets should be places of hope, pride and opportunity, not places where gambling harm is allowed to cluster.

“Where the evidence shows another gambling venue would deepen local harm, councils and residents must have the power to say no. The case for reform is overwhelming, and it is long overdue.”

The Sub-Committee concluded that the conditions proposed by the applicant would not adequately address concerns about crime, disorder and the protection of vulnerable people.

The applicant has a statutory right of appeal through the Magistrates’ Court.

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