Bianca Jagger opposes 24/7 gambling arcade near Earl's Court Tube

Human rights defender Bianca Jagger has called for a planned 24/7 gambling arcade opposite Earl's Court Tube Station to be stopped. Ms Jagger is campaigning with local residents who oppose Silvertime Amusements' application to relocate its shop to a more prominent site on Earl’s Court Road. The application is now with the Planning Inspectorate, which will review the case after the council's decision was appealed.

Ms Jagger, who lives near Earl’s Court Station, spoke at an event at St Cuthbert’s Church on Thursday, September 17. She stated her opposition as a human rights defender, mother, and grandmother, expressing concern about the potential impact on children and vulnerable individuals in the area. The 81-year-old activist said she would continue to oppose the venue. Silvertime's application was refused by Kensington and Chelsea Council during the planning process but was subsequently granted an operating licence. The venue requires both planning and licensing consent to open.

Concerns over community impact

Councillor Linda Wade, representing Earl’s Court, believes the proposed betting shop could directly affect the local community. She noted that families who have invested in the area are reportedly leaving because they do not feel safe. Councillor Wade urged the council to strongly advocate against the application when it is considered by the Planning Inspectorate.

Joe Powell MP, who represents Kensington and Bayswater, commented that the application reflects a broader issue across London and the country, where such establishments are increasingly prevalent on high streets. A representative for Silvertime Amusements did not provide a comment to the Local Democracy Reporting Service. Andrew Woods, legal counsel for Silvertime, stated at a licensing hearing in August that the company had operated at its current site for 10 years without issue. He added that the proposed relocation to 177-179 Earl’s Court Road would offer improved facilities and additional gambling machines.

What happens next

The final decision on whether Silvertime Amusements can open the 24/7 gambling arcade will be made by the Planning Inspectorate following the company's appeal against the council's planning refusal. Details of the upcoming hearing have not yet been released.