Planning Inspector Blocks 24-Hour Gambling Venue in Hanwell
Ealing Council’s refusal upheld after appeal by Pure Gaming Ltd dismissed on noise and crime concerns
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Residents in Hanwell will not see a 24-hour gambling venue open at 153-155 Uxbridge Road after an independent planning inspector upheld Ealing Council’s refusal of the scheme. The decision, issued this week, ends Pure Gaming Ltd’s appeal against the council’s original rejection.
The inspector found the company had failed to demonstrate the venue would meet the standards expected for a prominent town centre location. Homes sit directly above the vacant ground-floor unit, but Pure Gaming Ltd did not provide a noise impact assessment to address potential disturbances for residents.
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Crime Concerns Weighed Heavily
Metropolitan Police raised concerns about existing antisocial behaviour and crime in the area. The inspector noted a 24-hour venue could lead to customers gathering outside at night, increasing risks. These concerns were central to the decision to dismiss the appeal.
The inspector acknowledged the proposal could have created 14 jobs and brought an empty unit back into use. However, the potential harm to the town centre and nearby residents was judged to outweigh these benefits. The site remains vacant, with no further legal route for the developer to challenge the decision.
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Council Welcomes Decision
Cllr Monica Hamidi, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for good growth, said the decision was important for Hanwell. She stated the council aims to ensure town centres remain lively and welcoming while protecting residents’ quality of life.
“We want our town centres to be lively, welcoming and successful, but new business proposals must also protect people’s quality of life and contribute positively to the local area.”
Cllr Monica Hamidi, Ealing Council cabinet member for good growth
What Happens Next
Pure Gaming Ltd has no further right of appeal under current planning regulations. The site at 153-155 Uxbridge Road will remain vacant unless the company submits a revised proposal or another business applies for permission. Ealing Council has not indicated any plans to seek alternative uses for the unit.
Questions this report answers
+Why was the 24-hour gambling venue refused?
The planning inspector refused the venue because Pure Gaming Ltd failed to show it would meet town centre standards or protect residents from noise and antisocial behaviour. The inspector agreed with police concerns that a 24-hour venue could worsen existing crime in the area.
+What happens to the vacant site now?
The site at 153-155 Uxbridge Road will remain vacant as Pure Gaming Ltd has no further appeal rights. The council has not announced plans to seek alternative uses, so the unit may stay empty unless another business applies for permission.
+Did the venue’s job creation benefits sway the decision?
No, the inspector acknowledged the proposal could have created 14 jobs and reused an empty unit. However, the potential harm to the town centre and nearby residents was judged to outweigh these benefits.
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