Appeal Made Over Hanwell Slots Casino Plan
Pure Gaming Ltd asking Minister to overturn council decision
Local residents protesting about he planned gaming arcade near the Clocktower
November 27, 2025
Pure Gaming Ltd has appealed Ealing Council’s decision to reject its licence for a 24-hour gambling centre in Hanwell. The council had rejected the application due to concerns about the impact on the town centre’s character and strong local opposition.
The applicant believes the refusal was unjustified and wants the Secretary of State to overturn it arguing that the law is in favour of approval in such cases.
Pure Gaming Ltd submitted a proposal to operate a 24-hour gambling venue at 153–155 Uxbridge Road, near the Hanwell Clock Tower. Although described as a “bingo hall,” the venue was expected to function primarily as a slot machine arcade, just 400 metres from three local schools.
The application drew nearly 2,000 objections from residents, with only five in support. Concerns focused on the potential for increased anti-social behaviour, harm to vulnerable individuals, and the erosion of Hanwell’s community character. Campaigners also highlighted the proximity to schools and the risk of normalising gambling for young people.
This August, Ealing Council formally rejected the application following a detailed planning report. The report concluded that the proposed venue would undermine the character of Hanwell’s town centre and posed risks to public wellbeing.
Council officers cited the intensity of use, the 24/7 operating hours, and the nature of the business model as incompatible with the area’s civic and residential identity. The decision was welcomed by local campaigners, who had staged rallies and submitted formal objections.
Pure Gaming Ltd has now lodged an appeal with the Secretary of State, arguing that the council’s decision was unreasonable or procedurally flawed. The company maintains that its proposed venue complies with licensing and planning regulations and believes it can operate responsibly within the community.
The appeal process will involve a review of the council’s decision, public submissions, and potentially a hearing. A final ruling could take several months. In the meantime, Hanwell residents are continuing to mobilise, with another protest planned near the Clock Tower this week.
Hanwell Broadway Councillor Polly Knewstub said on social media “We have just learned that the decision to reject the 24 hour Slots Casino at the Clocktower has been appealed. This is a huge threat to our community and we must fight this again. Join us this Friday (28 November 2025) at 6 PM at the Hanwell Clocktower for the Christmas Tree Lighting. Let us turn it into a massive rally. Bring your friends, family and neighbours. Show that Hanwell says no to a 24 hour casino.”
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