A nightclub owner who also owns a former bingo site has been charged with financial offences linked to his club, including money laundering, cheating the public revenue and nine mortgage related offences.

Franco Lumba, 44, also owns the former Gala Bingo club and has plans redevelop the club into an entertainment centre which has come up against significant opposition. The latest allegations are in relation to Essence nightclub, which overlooks the Thames on Bucklands Wharf, near Kingston Bridge.

Described as “Kingston’s most exclusive venue” it is regularly used by professional sportsmen, celebrity actors and well-known musicians. As a result of Lumbra being arrested for money laundering on 8th June 2011, the club was temporarily closed down, however the Kingston Council later allowed the club reopen with restricted hours.

Local councillors dismissed the plans to develop the bingo club in September 2011 following a major campaign by residents in Kingston.

They will now be hoping with the latest charges, Lumba will struggle to challenge the decision. Mr Lumba is looking to have the restrictions on Essence removed and the bingo site development application supported during a five-day hearing scheduled for Richmond Magistrates’ Court starting on April 16.

However charges relating to his financial affairs will be heard next month and could have a negative impact on such hopes.