The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee of Newham Council is scheduled to consider a single application for a new premises licence. The application is for Vault Casino, located at 381 Barking Road, East Ham.

Vault Casino Premises Licence Application

The main item scheduled for discussion is an application for a new premises licence for Vault Casino, formerly known as the Denmark Arms, at 381 Barking Road, East Ham, E6 1LA. The application has been made by 312 Investments Limited.

The report pack indicates that the committee members are to hear and determine this application for the grant of a new premises licence for an Adult Gaming Centre. The application was received by the Licensing Authority on 21 May 2026.

A number of representations have been received from residents opposing the application. These representations raise concerns related to the licensing objectives of preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, ensuring gambling is conducted in a fair and open way, and protecting children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling. The report pack includes a summary of these representations, detailing the concerns raised by individuals such as Ella Sibley, Jason Cullen, and Rachel McGowan, Head Teacher of Plashet, City of London Academy.

The applicant, 312 Investments Limited, has submitted extensive documentation in support of its application, including a Local Area Risk Assessment, an Operational Management Plan, and safeguarding policies. The applicant's director, Max Davitt, has provided a curriculum vitae and a personal letter to the committee, outlining his extensive experience in the gaming industry. The applicant's case summary highlights that there are no objections from any responsible authorities, including the Metropolitan Police, the Licensing Authority, or Public Health.

The report pack also includes a legal precedent, the judgment in Future Leisure Limited v London Borough of Haringey, which was heard in the Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on 17 December 2025. This case involved an appeal against a decision by the London Borough of Haringey concerning an Adult Gaming Centre premises licence variation. The applicant's case summary references this judgment, suggesting it provides relevant legal interpretation and evidential findings applicable to the current application.

The committee will also be provided with a matrix analysing the representations received, detailing the objectors, summaries of their objections, the relevant licensing objectives, and the proposed management controls and policies. The report pack also contains plans of the premises and the surrounding area.