The Licensing Sub-Committee of Wandsworth Council met on Thursday 09 July 2026 to consider two applications: one for an Adult Gaming Centre in Putney High Street and another for a licence at the Athletic Stadium in Wimbledon Park. The committee granted the application for the Adult Gaming Centre in Putney High Street, but decisions on the Wimbledon Park application were not detailed in the provided information.

Adult Gaming Centre Licence for Admiral, 160-162 Putney High Street, London SW15 1RS

The Sub-Committee considered an application for a new premises licence for an Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) at 160-162 Putney High Street, London SW15 1RS, submitted by Luxury Leisure, trading as Admiral. The application was made under the Gambling Act 2005.

Background: The premises had previously been licensed under the Licensing Act 2003 as a bar called Lost Society, which closed in November 2022. Planning permission for its use as an AGC had already been granted.

Consultation:

• Responsible Authorities: No representations were received from any of the responsible authorities, including the Metropolitan Police, the Gambling Commission, and safeguarding bodies.
• Interested Parties: 58 representations were received from interested parties, primarily concerned about the potential impact on crime and disorder, anti-social behaviour, harm to vulnerable adults, and the premises' proximity to schools and Putney Library.

Applicant's Case: Luxury Leisure, represented by Gary Grant, barrister, highlighted their extensive experience as the largest AGC operator in the UK with an unblemished regulatory record. They emphasised their commitment to responsible gambling, evidenced by their G4 accreditation and comprehensive policies and procedures. They argued that AGCs are a legitimate part of the leisure industry, offering low-stakes amusement. The applicant stressed that their operational controls, including Think 25 age verification, CCTV, staff training, and multi-operator self-exclusion schemes, effectively mitigate any potential risks. They also pointed to the fact that planning permission had already been granted for the site without hours restrictions.

Objectors' Case: Representations were made by Fleur Anderson MP, Anna Wojcik (a local resident), and others. Key concerns included:

• Clustering and Cumulative Impact: The proximity of the proposed AGC to an existing AGC (Merkur Slots) and two betting shops was cited as creating an inappropriate cluster that increases the risk of harm.
• Protection of Children and Vulnerable Persons: Concerns were raised about the prominent location opposite Putney Station and near schools and Putney Library, potentially normalising gambling for young people and increasing exposure for vulnerable individuals.
• Crime and Disorder: Speculation about increased anti-social behaviour, loitering, and strain on police resources, particularly during late-night hours, was voiced.
• Character of Putney High Street: Objectors felt the proposed use was incompatible with the desired family-friendly and community-focused character of the high street.
• Hours of Operation: The application for 24-hour operation was a significant concern for many objectors.

Sub-Committee's Decision: The Sub-Committee granted the application for the Adult Gaming Centre licence. The decision reasons and any legal guidance informing the decision would be confirmed in writing within five working days, along with information on rights of appeal.

Athletic Stadium, Wimbledon Park, Wimbledon Park Road, London SW19 7HX

The Sub-Committee also considered an application for a new Premises Licence for the Athletic Stadium, Wimbledon Park, Wimbledon Park Road, London SW19 7HX, submitted by GrassRoots Padel Ltd.

Application Details: The application sought to allow the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises and the provision of regulated entertainment. Initially, the applicant proposed alcohol sales from 11:00 to 23:00 daily and regulated entertainment from 09:00 to 22:00.

Consultation:

• Responsible Authorities: The Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns about crime and disorder, requesting conditions related to CCTV and an incident log. Trading Standards raised concerns about the protection of children, requesting conditions for a record of refusals, staff training, and age checks. The applicant agreed to amendments addressing these concerns, satisfying the representations from these authorities.
• Other Persons: Six representations were received from other persons, objecting on grounds of public nuisance (noise, alcohol sales hours, music, access/egress, litter), crime and disorder (anti-social behaviour), and protection of children (exposure to alcohol sales). One representation was withdrawn after the applicant agreed to amend the operating schedule.

Applicant's Proposed Amendments: Following discussions, the applicant agreed to reduce the hours of operation to end at 21:00 hours daily, except for pre-planned community, private hire, or sporting events. A log of these events would be maintained, and residents within 100 metres would be notified at least five days in advance. The number of such events would be limited to 24 per calendar year. These amendments were reflected in the conditions.

Decision: The provided transcript indicates that the Sub-Committee deliberated on this application, with discussions focusing on the nature of the pre-planned community, private hire or sporting events, the sale of alcohol, safety measures for attendees, and the use of plastic glasses. However, the final decision on this application was not detailed in the provided information.