Wandsworth Council's Licensing Sub-Committee has granted a licence for a new adult gaming centre (AGC) to open on Putney High Street, despite significant concerns raised by local residents and community groups.
The decision, made on Thursday, July 9, 2026, allows Luxury Leisure, trading as Admiral, to operate the AGC at 160-162 Putney High Street. The premises was formerly occupied by the bar Lost Society, which closed in November 2022. Planning permission for its use as an AGC had already been granted.
During the licensing hearing, the committee considered representations from local residents and community groups who raised concerns about the potential impact on crime and disorder, anti-social behaviour, and harm to vulnerable adults. Key objections included the premises' proximity to Putney Library and several schools, as well as the clustering of gambling venues in the area.
Objectors argued that the proximity of the proposed AGC to an existing AGC (Merkur Slots) and two betting shops created an inappropriate cluster
that increases the risk of harm. They also highlighted concerns about the prominent location opposite Putney Station and near schools and Putney Library, fearing it could normalise gambling for young people and increase exposure for vulnerable individuals. Some residents felt the proposed use was incompatible with the desired family-friendly character of the high street. The application for 24-hour operation was also a significant concern, with one resident expressing fears about feeling less safe travelling through the area at night. The prominent gateway site opposite Putney Station was also seen as not contributing positively to the social and economic life of the town centre.
An Adult Gaming Centre licence allows the holder to offer an unlimited number of category C and D gaming machines, with up to 20 percent of the total number of machines being category B3 or B4. The maximum stakes and prizes for these categories are: B3: £2 stake, £500 prize; B4: £2 stake, £400 prize; C: £1 stake, £100 prize; and D: 10p stake (30p for non-money prizes), with a £5 prize (or £8 for non-money prizes).
Despite 58 representations from interested parties, no objections were received from responsible authorities, including the Metropolitan Police, the Gambling Commission, and safeguarding bodies. The applicant, represented by barrister Gary Grant, highlighted their extensive experience as the largest AGC operator in the UK with an unblemished regulatory record. They emphasised their commitment to responsible gambling, supported by G4 accreditation, which they described as the industry gold standard.
To address concerns about underage access and potential negative impacts, Luxury Leisure outlined several measures. These include a Challenge 25
policy with a Think 25
approach, where staff are trained to challenge anyone who looks under 25, with a high success rate in test purchases. Staff receive extensive training on identifying vulnerabilities and refusing entry to intoxicated individuals. The venue design features a two-door entrance with a lobby and slatted screens for privacy, while external advertising is not directed at under 18s. Staff are encouraged to be engaged with customers to assess vulnerability. The venue will be alcohol-free, and a Gamblewise app allows customers to manage their gambling time and spend, alerting staff if a customer attempts to enter against self-imposed limits. A multi-operator self-exclusion scheme is in place, along with external CCTV for investigations. There will be no direct access between the AGC and other licensed premises, and notices at entrances will state that no persons under 18 are permitted.
The applicant also argued that clustering is not a ground for refusal and that their operational controls mitigate potential risks. They noted that their Tooting venue operates within a denser cluster without adverse impact.
The Sub-Committee granted the application, with decision reasons to be confirmed in writing within five working days. Information on rights of appeal will also be provided.
For more details, see the Public reports pack.
