The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee of Brent Council met on Tuesday 22 April 2025 and approved an application for a Bingo Premises Licence for Merkur Slots UK Ltd. The licence was granted with conditions agreed upon by responsible authorities and the Licensing Sub-Committee.

Application for a Bingo Premises Licence by Merkur Slots UK Ltd

The Sub-Committee considered an application for a Bingo Premises Licence for the premises known as Merkur Slots UK Ltd, located at 265 Neasden Lane, London, NW10 1QG. The application was made by Merkur Slots UK Ltd, with Poppleston Allen acting as their agent.

Representations were received from a Ward Councillor and local residents, raising concerns about the potential impact on crime and disorder, the targeting of deprived areas, the addictive nature of the products, and the proximity to a bus stop used by schoolchildren. These concerns were detailed in a formal objection submitted by Councillor Liz Dixon, representing the Neasden community, and other local residents. The objections highlighted Brent's high concentration of gambling premises and the significant annual cost of gambling-related harm to the borough.

However, representations from the Police and Licensing Officers were withdrawn. Merkur Slots UK Ltd, through their agent Poppleston Allen, submitted extensive documentation outlining their operational standards, local area risk assessments, and proposed conditions to promote the licensing objectives. These included comprehensive CCTV systems, a Challenge 25 proof of age scheme, incident logs, and robust staff training on social responsibility and safeguarding.

Following negotiations, Merkur Slots UK Ltd agreed to a set of 28 conditions, which were accepted by the Police and Licensing Authority. These conditions addressed concerns regarding CCTV, age verification, staffing levels, prevention of crime and disorder, toilet checks, and staff training. As a result of these agreed conditions, the Police and Licensing Officers withdrew their representations.

The Sub-Committee decided to grant the licence sought, subject to the agreed conditions. This decision was made after considering the application, the representations, and the applicant's proposed measures to uphold the licensing objectives.