A company has applied for an Adult Gaming Centre premises licence at Bakers Arms in the unit that was the Bright Sparks shop (842-844 High Street Leyton E10 6AE). It is currently a class E unit (which means it is fit for any type of retail / cafe / office / medical / financial or professional service).

Why object?

Over supply - 6 other options within 2 mins walk

Bakers Arms has an over-supply of gambling and betting outlets. There are already 4 bookies (Paddy Power, Jennings Bet, Ladbrooks, William Hill) and 2 adult gaming centres (Jesters and Leyton Slots) within 300 feet / 100 metre distance / 2 mins walk of this location. The applicant cannot argue there is need for another to serve this area.

Stifles variety on our high street

It is a prime retail spot at a busy crossroad junction - turning it into another adult gaming centre deprives the area of a business that could really benefit the community and do well from such a high foot fall location.

Potential to add to antisocial behaviour

It has the potential to increase antisocial behaviours such as street drinking and littering.

A step backwards for our local community

As we work our way through the pandemic, our local high streets and businesses need the communities around them more than ever to survive and maintain their variety, vibrancy and productivity. An outsider company that has no connection to the area coming in to open a premises similar to 6 others in the vicinity is taking a step backwards.

If you’re concerned you can lodge your objection by writing a letter stating why to licensing@walthamforest.gov.uk or post your objection to:

Waltham Forest Licensing Section, Resident Services, 3 The Square, Leyton, London, E10 5NR

The deadline is this Thursday 22nd April 2021.