Residents Challenge Rise of Betting Shops in Earl’s Court, London

Residents of Earl’s Court, London, are voicing strong concerns about the growing number of betting shops and gambling establishments in their area. Local advocate, Andrea Level, who is also the Co-Chair of the Earl’s Court Society Planning and Conservation Group, articulated her frustration, stating, “In Earl’s Court, we have faced a huge uphill battle trying to rein in the proliferation of betting shops and fast food takeaways.” Level emphasized that these establishments operate around the clock and contribute to anti-social behaviour in the community.

Her sentiments reflect a broader trend seen across the UK. An article by ITV News published in April highlighted a significant increase in the number of gambling machines, which surged from approximately 171,000 to 202,000 since the onset of the pandemic. In North London’s Brent borough, local authorities have scrutinized the rise of bingo licenses for venues that function as betting shops, or “adult gaming centres” (AGCs), indicating a public health issue linked to gambling.

Residents in Earl’s Court have noted the visible concentration of betting establishments. Within a short distance from Earl’s Court Station, there are multiple venues, including a Coral and an Admiral Casino. The presence of a William Hill across the street provides further options for bettors. The local community fought against the establishment of a 24-hour SilverTime casino in a former bank building last year, successfully blocking its installation. Despite this victory, residents remain apprehensive about the cumulative impact of so many gambling premises in close proximity.

Level proposes that a “reasonable terminal hour” for such businesses in mixed-use areas should be set at midnight, aligning with existing licensing policies. She expressed a desire for more community-focused businesses, from local pubs to independent cafés, rather than establishments that exploit vulnerable individuals.

Another local resident, Sandra Yarwood, who serves alongside Level in the conservation group, echoed these concerns. “There are two slot machine places, SilverTime and Admiral, and two old-school betting shops, both opposite each other,” she said. “They are all very close to each other and completely degrade the High Street.” Yarwood believes the area would benefit from more small chain and independent restaurants, as well as fitness facilities.

Local politician Cllr Linda Wade from the Liberal Democrats noted that the issue extends beyond gambling shops. She stated, “The problem is wider; it’s around the changing faces of our high streets and the promotion by the Mayor of a night-time economy.” Wade pointed out that these gambling venues often target areas already experiencing economic deprivation, as seen in Earl’s Court.

Concerns about betting shops are not limited to Earl’s Court. In nearby Shepherd’s Bush, a local resident reported that there are nine betting shops along Uxbridge Road, with one alarmingly located next to a primary school. This resident, preferring to remain anonymous, voiced the need for a drastic reduction in the operational hours of these establishments and the repurposing of venues to better serve the community.

In Notting Hill Gate, Joe Powell, the Labour MP for Kensington and Bayswater, is actively campaigning against the proposed opening of another 24/7 SilverTime casino. He successfully blocked a similar expansion in Earl’s Court last year and has garnered support from thousands of residents opposing the proliferation of gambling establishments.

The Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt, expressed frustration regarding the battle to limit gambling premises in the borough. According to an ITV report, a letter submitted to the UK Government by 36 councils and two mayors highlighted the limitations local authorities face in intervening against new gambling venues, despite strong community opposition.

Councils are advocating for changes to the Government’s ‘Aim to Permit’ framework, which currently requires local authorities to prioritize approval for gambling licenses. Powell has called for the Government and the Gambling Commission to reform regulations surrounding gambling establishments, specifically advocating for stricter adherence to the ‘Aim to Permit’ guidelines to empower local licensing authorities.

In response to these concerns, a spokesperson for Kensington and Chelsea Council stated, “There is no direct evidence linking anti-social behaviour specifically with betting shops.” They noted the introduction of a public space protection order in 2024 aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour and mentioned that they issued 1,050 fixed penalty notices since April 2024. The spokesperson also acknowledged that under national law, councils are required to ‘Aim to Permit’ gambling licenses, limiting their power to reject applications outright.

According to the Gambling Commission, the Gambling Act 2005 mandates that both the Commission and licensing authorities must approach their regulatory functions with an intent to allow gambling, provided it aligns with the licensing objectives. A representative from Hammersmith and Fulham Council noted that their recent policy review found a link between clusters of gambling venues and areas of high deprivation and crime, prompting them to implement stricter measures to regulate new establishments.

The ongoing debate highlights a critical tension between community concerns and regulatory frameworks governing gambling establishments. While local authorities are calling for more control and regulation, industry representatives argue that existing laws are sufficient and should be enforced consistently.

As the situation evolves, residents and local authorities in Earl’s Court and its surrounding areas remain vigilant in their efforts to preserve the character of their neighborhoods and address the impacts of gambling on their communities.