Residents fear ‘crime hot spot’ could worsen if plans for adult gaming centre go ahead

By Julia Gregory, local democracy reporter

Residents in a Westminster crime hot spot which “attracts drugs and gangs” said they were concerned that it was the wrong place for an adult gaming centre.

Experienced gaming company operator Gavin Tresidder wants to open the business  in a former bookies shop in Queensway.

The average stake would 30p to 40p and maximum stakes and prizes are fixed nationally.

Just a fifth of the machines would have £2 maximum stakes, the rest £1.

If granted the business on Queensway would be the smallest gambling centre in Westminster with the shortest hours and  miss out on  late night trade, after Mr Tresidder took note of concerns and an initial application was turned down.

Steps include a customer service desk just inside, no entry without ID and customers will also have to register.

Experienced staff will also look out for the signs of addiction and ask people to leave if they think they are vulnerable.

Mr  Tresidder said: “Staff undergo extensive training before they are placed into one of our venues.

“Our staff will ensure that the vulnerable will not have any access.”

However residents and community groups said the area was a crime hot spot and many vulnerable people were in the area with several hostels for the homeless nearby and school children passing by.

David Parton who lives nearby said: “Large numbers of under 18s and gangs and homeless people congregate immediately outside.

“We know there are no addiction and recovery services in the local area.

“My flat mate and I have been assaulted on our doorstep four times over the last nine months and CCTV did nothing to prevent it.

“Crime happens on Queensway in broad daylight at all hours of the day.”

He said CCTV and shorter hours will not have any impact as “Queensway is a hot spot”.

“You have to live it and experience it to  know just how much crime and deprivation there is on this street,” he added.

In January alone there were 100 anti social behaviour incidents, 56 burglaries 16 drug offences and 30 robberies .

Councillor Margot Bright told the licensing committee:“Young people often gather outside and are likely to be attracted to a gaming centre.

“These machines with their flashing lights and fast pay outs are likely to be addictive.”

She added: “Queensway is a known area for drug dealing” and said it  “could be a magnet for addiction.”

Fellow ward councillor Susie Burbridge said: “We have vulnerable people and we are hopefully bringing them back to life, showing them the path and how to guide them and we don’t think places like this will help.

“We don’t need to tempt more vulnerable people than we already have into this area.”

William Kennedy, from the Queensway Residents Association said: “I believe this type of operation will only add to the stresses and strains of a streetscape that is already under strain.”

However lawyer Philip Kolvin acting for the applicant said there would be strict rules to protect the vulnerable and it was estimated that just seven customers would be playing at any one time.

“Adult Gaming Centres are not seaside arcades and are not attractive to children.”

“Those living and sleeping on the streets and intoxicated people will not be permitted.”

The firm would liaise with charities working with the homeless to help protect vulnerable people from using the machines.

He stressed there would be notices up about addiction and staff would be trained to spot signs of problem gambling or people getting agitated.

And he said drugs would not be allowed on the premises and staff will greet and keep an eye on players.

And he pointed out that the area has has just 40 per cent of the crime rates in the West End but gaming machines are allowed there.

“You can walk into any of the betting shops and bet your very expensive shirt – there is no limit.”

And people could also play high stakes at the nearby casino.

“The fears people have expressed will not come to fruition but if they do my client has the expertise to deal with them.”

He added: “Protecting vulnerable people is at the forefront of the gambling operation.”

Westminster City Council’s licensing committee will make a decision within five days of the hearing.