PALMERS GREEN: POWER, PRIDE AND A PLEA TO LANDLORDS

The recent planning appeal for an Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) at the former Lloyds Bank building has sparked passionate debate in Palmers Green. Despite strong community opposition, the Planning Inspector overturned Enfield Council’s original decision, granting permission for East Kent Leasing (owners of Palace Amusements) to open another 24/7 AGC.

The Inspector concluded that Palmers Green’s District Centre remains "healthy," that the number of gambling venues remains modest overall, and that bringing a long-vacant unit back into use would not undermine the area’s vitality. These points were strongly challenged by the Palmers Green Action Team at the hearing. We highlighted that another AGC would bring the total number of gambling establishments on our high street to six—double the number of pharmacies, opticians, gyms, and dry cleaners, and three times the number of newsagents and funeral parlours. Retail space here is in high demand, with vacancy rates well below the national average—so the idea that this simply fills a gap doesn’t hold up. While concerns about crime were acknowledged, no direct link was made between the proposed use and increased criminal activity.

Though this decision is disappointing, it reflects a broader issue: the community’s limited ability to influence the future of its high street. Planning policies struggle to keep up with evolving commercial trends, and corporations are well-versed in navigating around them. But this doesn't mean we are powerless.

Palmers Green is bursting with creativity and drive. We have a high number of well established, highly regarded independent  businesses. Stage, the much-loved café, has just opened a second location across the road. A new GAIL’s Bakery is set to open soon, and in June, Devonshire Square will launch as a vibrant new public space—reclaiming the end of Devonshire Road for markets, events, and community gatherings. It’s a clear example of what’s possible when local vision, investment, and collaboration come together.

These are the kinds of developments that reflect our values—independent, inclusive, and designed with the community in mind.

We know we have the support of many in the community. Now, the relationships we wish to deepen are with local landlords. When we’ve worked together in the past, wonderful short- and long-term ventures have flourished—Holtwhites, Philanthropy, Muswell Hillbillies, Mini Garms, and Stitch among them. These success stories show what’s possible when landlords choose to back local talent and creativity.

So today, we make a hopeful and genuine ask: work with us. Listen to what local people want. Prioritise businesses that bring character, connection, and a sense of place to our high street. Palmers Green is ready to grow—diverse, resilient, and full of life. What we need now is strong, collaborative partnerships.

This decision won’t define us. If anything, it fuels our resolve. Palmers Green Action Team has more exciting projects in the pipeline, and we’ll continue championing the spaces and businesses that make this community so special.

Let’s shape a Palmers Green we’re all proud to call home. Together.