North Tyneside Council approved a gambling licence for a previously rejected venue on Monday
The Collingwood Centre units in North Shields.(Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)
Tynemouth MP Sir Alan Campbell has expressed his disappointment over a successful application for a 24/7 gambling licence for a North Shields venue.
Earlier this week, North Tyneside Council’s licensing committee granted Luxury Leisure Ltd an all-day gambling licence for a new “adult gaming centre” in a formally vacant unit in the Collingwood Centre. The prospect of an Admiral hub there has proved controversial since the original but separate planning application was submitted back in December 2024.
North Tyneside’s planning committee originally rejected the application but this was overturned by an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate in October 2025, However, local concerns ranging from the proximity of schools to worries over anti-social behaviour continued.
Sir Alan said: “I share the disappointment of local residents with the outcome, especially as the original planning application was rejected by the council but then overturned on appeal.
“In terms of the licensing application, in fairness to the council, the legislation as it stands – which we inherited – doesn’t leave licensing committees much alternative without risk of further costly appeals.
“Our government is bringing forward legislation to put more power into the hands of local communities. But personally, having backed residents at every stage, it’s deeply frustrating that we’re in this position.”
Luxury Leisure’s representatives defended the gambling licence application successfully on Monday, March 31.
The committee was furnished with an independent security report from Leveche Associates, which stated: “We have found Admiral provides excellent well managed and high quality venues for its patrons in a safe and professional environment, there was no evidence of drug taking, excessive noise, criminality of other anti-social behaviour or customers being drunk or intoxicated.”
Speaking on behalf of the application, KC Paul Greaney said there was “no doubt that Luxury Leisure is a serious and responsible business”, which would strictly adhere to licensing objectives.
Councillors were also informed that a variety of methods would be imposed to ensure safe operation, including a challenge 25 ID requirement and staff training to spot signs of vulnerability or problem betting.
Did you know you can make ChronicleLive a preferred source of North East news in Google, which will mean you get more of our breaking news, exclusives, and must-read stories straight away? Here’s more information about what this means and how to do it – you can also do it straight away by clicking here.
