Issue - meetings

Granted planning permission subject to the conditions and informatives as set out in the Committee report.

PROPOSAL

Change of use from betting shop (Use Class Sui Generis) to amusement centre (adult gaming centre) (Use Class Sui Generis).

RECOMMENDATION

1.          That the Committee resolve to GRANT planning permission subject to the conditions and informatives set out in the report.

2.          That the Head of Planning is delegated authority to make changes to the wording of the committee’s decision (such as to delete, vary or add conditions, informatives, planning obligations or reasons for the decision) prior to the decision being actioned, provided that the Head of Planning is satisfied that any such changes could not reasonably be regarded as deviating from the overall principle of the decision reached by the committee nor that such change(s) could reasonably have led to a different decision having been reached by the committee.

Sarah Dilley (Principal Planning Officer) introduced the report, detailing the proposal for a change of use from betting shop (Use Class Sui Generis) to amusement centre (adult gaming centre) with the Committee advised that the existing site was previously in use as a double fronted betting shop and no external alterations were proposed.  In recommending the application for approval members were advised the proposal had been assessed to comply with Policy BE5 of the Brent Local Plan based on the weight given to the planning application and appeal history on site.

As there were no clarifying questions from members, the Vice-Chair proceeded to invite local Councillor Chan (who had registered to speak as a local ward councillor in objection to the application) to address the Committee.

The following key points were highlighted:

·             In highlighting concerns and objections raised in relation to the previous application for the same site, the opportunity was taken to remind members of what was felt to be the significant harm created by gambling and the overconcentration of adult gaming centres and other gambling premises in the vicinity of the site.  This was deemed to be profoundly detrimental not only to local residents and businesses but also to vulnerable individuals residing in the area, who would likely frequent the proposed establishment if permission were granted with the concerns highlighted based on both qualitative and quantitative grounds.

·             Given that Harlesden had already been recognised as one of the main gambling centres across London reference was also made to the concentration of existing gambling facilities situated within a 500-meter radius of the application site and its proximity to a homeless support facility providing assistance to a large number of vulnerable individuals with similar objections also raised concerning the previous application by local residents, businesses, and the police.

·             In noting that the Planning Inspector had not supported the Local Authority view in considering the appeal and overturning refusal of planning permission on the previous application in relation to the impact on crime, antisocial behaviour and disorder it was felt these remained valid concerns with the proposal likely increase antisocial behaviour, crime, disorder, littering, noise and nuisance as well as impacting on the vitality of business in the surrounding area.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6