Hammersmith Ram pub bingo hall plans withdrawn

Proposals to repurpose the Hammersmith Ram pub on King Street as a bingo hall have been withdrawn. The application, submitted by real estate company LCE Property, sought to change the use of the historic building, which closed as a pub in July. LCE Property had stated that a bingo hall would serve as a community-focused venue attracting patrons of all ages.

The future of the Hammersmith Ram has been uncertain since its sale by Young & Co.'s Brewery to Hammersmith Realty Ltd, part of the Arora Family property group, in July. Shortly after the sale, the building was reopened under the name 'Discount Store'. This temporary use occurred without the necessary planning permission, leading to concerns from local residents and councillors. Hammersmith and Fulham Council engaged with Arora Family regarding this unauthorised use.

Community Opposition and Council Action

The temporary discount store announced it would cease operations on October 15, following planning and agreement issues related to its use as a shop. An Arora Family spokesperson confirmed that the company running the store had been given notice. They also stated that the council had been informed and the case would be flagged to the police, expressing hope that the building would remain secure.

The subsequent proposal to establish a bingo hall, submitted by LCE Property in early September, appeared to diverge from Arora Family's stated long-term intention to operate the site as a pub. Mohan Sidhu, a Director at LCE Property, had described the bingo hall plan as similar to a Buzz Bingo, emphasising its social aspects and potential to reduce loneliness. He also indicated an intention to apply for an alcohol licence if the proposal was approved.

The withdrawal of the bingo hall application means the building's future remains undetermined, potentially leading to a further period of vacancy. Local councillors Molly Mantle and Callum Nimmo stated that the withdrawal represented a victory for Hammersmith, attributing the outcome to the collective efforts of those who signed a petition and objected to the bingo hall plans. They highlighted that over 600 local residents supported the campaign.

Councillors Mantle and Nimmo expressed their belief that King Street is undergoing positive changes, citing the new Civic Campus, Unity Square, and residential developments as contributing factors. They stated their hope that the owners will secure an operator to maximise the potential of the Hammersmith Ram and pledged to continue working towards that goal.