‘World Class’ Casino Plans Inside London’s Trocadero Building Given Green Light

Green Light for £40M Casino at London’s Trocadero

Plans to build a ‘world-class’ casino and restaurant inside London’s iconic Trocadero building have been unanimously approved by Westminster City councillors.

🏢 Project Overview

  • Developer: Genting Casinos UK

  • Location: 13 Coventry Street, site of the former Bubba Gump restaurant and Opium nightclub (closed in 2019 after a shooting)

  • Size: Two-storey venue accommodating up to 1,250 people

  • Estimated cost: £40 million

  • Expected jobs created: 350

  • Additional request: Genting is applying for a 24-hour operating license, currently under review.

🎰 BDG Game, Not Alcohol

Genting’s Chief Financial Officer, James Axleby, told councillors:

He added that a robust operational management plan is in place to manage:

  • Noise

  • Crowd dispersal

  • Smoking

  • Antisocial behaviour

🧠 Council & Community Reaction

  • Council planning officers supported the project, noting:

    • It is an improvement over the building’s previous use as a nightclub.

    • Casinos don’t typically attract “large, high-spirited groups”.

    • A 24-hour operation would reduce noise peaks from mass late-night exits.

  • The Soho Society, however, objected:

    📜 Casino Licensing

    • Westminster does not issue new casino licenses.

    • Genting is applying to relocate an existing license from the Crockfords Club in Curzon Street, which closed two years ago.


    📌 Key Takeaways

    • The Trocadero will soon house a major new casino and restaurant, marking a significant redevelopment of a high-profile West End location.

    • While local concerns remain, the council views the move as a safer, better-regulated alternative to past nightlife venues.

    • Approval for 24-hour operation is still pending.

    • Genting is reusing an existing license, not applying for a new one.

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