Wandsworth Council Approves 24-Hour Gambling Venue in Putney Amidst Limited Options

A new 24-hour gambling establishment is set to open in the heart of Putney, despite ongoing concerns regarding the welfare of vulnerable individuals in the community. Wandsworth Council has approved a licence for Luxury Leisure, operating under the name Admiral, to establish an adult gaming centre on Putney High Street. This location already hosts one similar centre and two betting shops within close proximity.

The licensing committee of the council noted that, although numerous objections had been raised against the application, the evidence did not meet the necessary threshold for refusal. Furthermore, the council’s existing policy does not impose restrictions based on the concentration of similar venues in the area. In light of the situation, the council has committed to reviewing its gambling policy to enhance its authority in future licensing decisions, aiming to be more resilient against potential appeals that could reverse their rulings.

Community Concerns Over Gambling Venue

The application attracted a total of 58 objections, with many residents expressing worry that it would contribute to an unwanted “cluster” of gambling establishments along the high street. A separate planning permission application faced opposition from 624 individuals yet was approved in December 2024. Fleur Anderson, the local Member of Parliament, articulated her concerns during the council’s licensing hearing on July 9, asserting that the proposed site was inappropriate due to its proximity to Putney Station and nearby schools.

Ms Anderson cautioned that the opening of this venue could lead to a detrimental clustering effect of gambling sites in the neighbourhood. She highlighted the potential negative impact on vulnerable individuals, including those struggling with mental health issues, addiction, financial hardship, and grief, who would inevitably pass by the venue daily. She remarked, “The concern is that when that difficult day comes – the bereavement, the financial pressure, the mental health crisis – the constant accessibility and visibility is right there waiting. That’s why location matters.” The MP stressed that the visibility of a gambling venue across from a major transport hub could inadvertently expose vulnerable people to gambling opportunities, regardless of whether they actively sought them out.

Voices of Concern from the Community

Liz Bridges, the former chaplain of HMP Wandsworth, echoed these concerns, emphasising the number of vulnerable individuals who might frequent the new establishment. She pointed out the plight of many men released from Wandsworth Prison who often find themselves in vulnerable situations, lingering at transport hubs with limited options. Local resident Anna Wojcik, a mother of two, added that there should be limits to the number of gambling premises in close proximity, arguing that it contradicts the licensing objective aimed at protecting children and vulnerable people from harm.

In defence of the new gaming centre, barrister Gary Grant, representing Luxury Leisure, asserted that the venue would enforce strict entry regulations to ensure children are not permitted to enter. He committed to implementing all necessary precautions to safeguard vulnerable individuals, including proactive intervention when required. Mr Grant highlighted Admiral’s extensive experience in managing adult gaming centres, noting that none of the approximately 300 establishments it operates across the UK have faced licence reviews for failing to meet their obligations. He argued that most objections stemmed from speculative fears, asserting that the venue would be managed responsibly.

Future Steps for Gambling Policy Review

Mr Grant further contended that the plans would revitalise a high street property that has been boarded up and vacant since 2022, bringing it back into commercial use. A report from the committee’s decision stated that the area is relatively affluent and that there had been no significant issues or incidents related to existing gambling premises on the high street. The committee acknowledged Admiral’s positive track record and the conditions it would need to adhere to in order to maintain its licence.

Despite approving the application, the committee agreed on the necessity of reviewing the council’s gambling policy to better inform future licensing decisions. The report indicated that the forthcoming review aims to enhance the council’s capacity to consider applications for gambling-related premises licences more effectively. Plans for a public consultation as part of this review will be announced in due course, allowing residents to voice their opinions on the matter.