Plan for gaming arcade lodged for former fitness centre Ballincollig

PLANS for a ‘gaming/amusement arcade’ at a vacant commercial unit in Ballincollig have been lodged with Cork City Council.

The application, submitted by Coalquay Leisure Limited, seeks permission for the change of use of unit four, Westside Retail Park.

The unit, according to a document submitted with the planning application, is currently vacant, but was most recently in use as a fitness centre.

“The fitness-centre use at the site ceased operations in 2023 and the unit has since remained vacant, negatively impacting the vibrancy and amenities at this edge of town centre location,” the cover letter of the application submitted on behalf of Coalquay Leisure Limited stated.

It said the proposed development, if granted permission, would see the change-of-use of the ground floor to a gaming/amusement arcade with storage on the first floor.

“Our clients are experienced operators of gaming/amusement arcades around the country, with ‘Goldrush Casinos’ established in Cork, Dublin, and various town centres such as Carlow, Naas, Ennis, Athy, and Wexford.

“All of these premises operate successfully and positively contribute to a broad mix of uses in these urban centres,” the cover letter continued.

The application contends that the development would not give rise to any negative impacts on the amenities of residents in the area.

Cork City Council is due to make a decision on the application by June 6.