Gaming arcade element of Midleton planning application refused

Planning permission has refused for a gaming/amusement arcade as part of a mixed use development in Midleton.

The application was submitted to Cork County Council by Coalquay Leisure Limited in December.

The plans sought to reconfigure and amalgamate an existing shop premises at 54 Main St and Distillery Lanes in Midleton, with part of an existing residential unit and storage shed, to create the arcade and a café at ground-floor level, and a five-bedroom apartment unit at upper floor level.

The plans also included the construction of a single-storey extension to the rear of the building, to form part of the gaming/amusement arcade.

Several objections were submitted with respect to the development, with highlighted concerns including the potential for increased antisocial behaviour in the immediate vicinity.

Objections

One objection submitted on behalf of Walsh’s Pharmacy on Main Street said locating the entrance to the arcade on Distillery Lanes “creates a hidden environment conducive to antisocial behaviour, loitering, and unmonitored activity”.

Walsh’s Pharmacy also said this development “essentially creates a back-street gambling den in the centre of Midleton — threatens public safety in Distillery Lanes, diminishes residential amenities, and offers no positive economic contribution to the town’s recovery [following recent flooding events]”.

Another objection was submitted on behalf of Social Democrats TD Liam Quaide, who said he has “significant concerns” regarding the development’s arcade aspect.

The local authority approved the application minus the arcade, subject to 12 conditions.

One condition states that the change of use of the ground floor premises as a gaming/amusement arcade is not permitted, in order to protect the amenities of the area to the protect the retail character of the Main Street.

Another condition stipulates that in order to protect neighbouring amenities, no music or other amplified sound shall be emitted to the public street or broadcast in such a manner as to cause “nuisance to the occupants of nearby properties”.