A rally organised by objectors was held outside the Town Hall on Tuesday

PROPOSALS for an all-night casino in Holloway Road have been blocked by the Town Hall after hundreds of residents and community groups voiced their opposition.

Cain’s Amusement Ltd had first submitted a licensing application for an Adult Gaming Centre in July.

They were blocked by the planning committee two weeks ago and had their final hope of approval rejected again by Islington’s licensing committee this week.

A rally was held outside the Town Hall on Tuesday as councillors entered the building, bringing together parents, community groups and politicians to highlight the community opposition to the site.

Devon Osborne, Green councillor for Tufnell Park, has been leading on the campaign against the site and said she was “delighted” the Town Hall had made the decision to block the application.

She said: “I was thrilled that so many people from different walks of life came together and spoke out at the rally.

Members of the Al-Risaalah Mosque at the rally

“It was the right outcome. They [Cain’s Amusements Ltd] couldn’t demonstrate that they knew the area or the challenges it faces, and they had three opportunities to do so.

“Ultimately, the applicant’s arrogance and that of their consultants and legal advice was their downfall.”

Councillor Sheridan Kates, another Green councillor in Tufnell Park, said: “This is a huge win for the community – thank you to everyone who submitted objections and came along to the hearing. We’re delighted by the decision and will keep fighting this until the appeal is all wrapped up.”

Representations at the meeting were given by the Metropolitan Police, Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn and nearby residents.

Mr Corbyn said: “I do not think the area needs yet another gambling operation of any sort, what we surely need is something much more positive within our area, and have due regard to the vulnerability of people who may be enticed into it and therefore lose a lot of their money.”

The Tribune spoke to members of the Al-Risaalah Mosque at the rally, stationed just 50 yards away from the gambling centre, who told how they feared an increase in Islamophobic attacks if the application had been successful.

Cllr Sheridan Kates

Abdul Rahman, one of the Mosque representatives, said: “There are a lot of people with mental health issues, addictions and who are vulnerable in this area already.

“This site would not benefit anyone and make it worse for them.

“We are worried about people becoming violent, and targeting our Mosque if it was to be successful.

“We are opposed to this site and want to fight against it.”

Following the ruling, the applicant said they would be appealing the decision.

In their representation at the meeting, the applicant said: “The voices that aren’t heard in this meeting are those who enjoy arcades, and do so overwhelmingly without addiction issues.

“This area does not improve by allowing a vacant building to deteriorate. It is a sad-looking premises that blights the area. Instead it can be put into use by local people, who live and work locally.”