Plans to convert a former bank in High Barnet into a 24-hour gambling venue have been refused by Barnet Council.

Town hall planning chiefs turned down an application by Merkur Slots to open an adult gaming centre in the former TSB bank in High Street, which is part of a Grade 2-listed terrace.

The plans drew 772 objections from residents during a public consultation, including concerns over the proposed venue’s impact on vulnerable people and fears it would lead to noise and antisocial behaviour. There were six letters in support.

In a decision notice published on 22nd November, council officers wrote that the proposed change of use would be contrary to a range of local and London-wide planning policies.

Planning chiefs said opening an adult gaming centre “in close proximity to vulnerable groups and uses within the High Barnet ward” – including schools, food banks, hospitals and GP surgeries – would have a “harmful effect on the health and wellbeing of residents and the local area”.

Officers added that losing the current commercial, business and service use would “detract from the function of the primary retail frontage” and “have a detrimental impact on the vitality and viability of the town centre, including the aspirations of the Barnet Council Growth Strategy and the adopted Chipping Barnet Community Plan”.

No evidence was submitted as part of the application to show the premises had been marketed for its current use, officers wrote, which is contrary to local and London-wide policies.

Planning chiefs added that without a legal agreement to secure a financial contribution towards long and short stay cycle parking the proposal “does not address the highways impacts of the development”. In a separate report, they explained that a contribution of £500 per cycling space to secure long and short stay parking close to the premises was needed to comply with the London Plan.

The council’s decision to refuse permission is subject to appeal. Merkur Slots said: “We will engage with the review process.”

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