A property developer’s plan to turn a Mayfair townhouse next to a church into a 24-hour casino has been thrown out by Westminster council.
Councillors voted to reject a proposal to convert the Grade II-listed Victorian former stable block in Brick Street into an exclusive members-only gambling venue.
The plan, from property firm Fenton Whelan, had angered worshippers at neighbouring Christ Church Mayfair, who claimed noise from a proposed roof terrace would infringe their “right to worship”.
A letter from the church said: “There would be a significant increase in noise, disruption and loss of quiet enjoyment both to the church, and nearby residents.”
The proposal was turned down by a planning sub-committee, which agreed the casino would harm the experience of churchgoers.
One committee member, Labour’s Guthrie McKie, voted in favour of the scheme, which had been recommended for approval.
One planning expert said: “It seems a bit odd. A casino seems quite low profile compared with all the bars and restaurants nearby.”
