Coalquay Leisure’s Proposed Gaming/Amusement Arcade in Cork turned Down by City Council

A proposed gaming arcade in Ballincollig, Cork, has been turned down by Cork City Council. For those still seeking gaming thrills, online slots might have to suffice as slmost 50 objections to the plans were submitted to the council, including some from residents and some from local businesses.  

The application submitted on April 12^th by Coalquay Leisure Limited was for permission for the change of use of a former fitness centre (permitted by Cork County Council Planning Reference 14/5046) to a gaming/ amusement arcade with storage area and all ancillary site development works at Unit No. 4, Westside Retail Park, Ballincollig, Cork. P31TY29. 

The proposed development provides for gaming/amusement arcade use at ground floor level, with the associated storage area serving the proposed ground floor use at mezzanine floor level. 

The company already operates a few casinos in the city centre. 

Their submission statements emphasised the fact that their proposals were aligned with the council's Development Plan objectives, including support for 'commercial leisure.' 

Almost 50 Objections to Plans Submitted to Council

The plans by the company met local opposition, with almost 50 objections to the development submitted to the council.  

The Managing Director of Regatta Great Outdoors, Brian Fox, was one of the objectors, stating that car parking spaces were for retail and that there was a lack of existing spaces. He said that their turnover would be affected as a result. 

Mr Fox also said that he feared for the safety of staff, customers, families and young women that shop at his store because of the clientele a gaming/amusement arcade would attract. 

Fox concluded by saying, “I fear it would contribute to crime and antisocial behaviour problems outside our store.”  

Many of the objections followed a common theme of fears over:

• Antisocial behaviour 
• Staff and customer safety 
• Crime 
• Noise nuisance 
• Proximity to local school 
• Family and societal problems associated with gambling 
• Lack of car parking spaces  

The council refused planning permission on Thursday, June 6^th. It is unclear as to whether Coalquay Leisure Limited will appeal the decision.