Planning granted for amusement arcade in north Cork

Approval has been given for the controversial move to convert a former pub near the centre of Mitchelstown into an amusement arcade, despite strong opposition in the north Cork town.

An Bord Pleanála has granted planning permission to Perks Promotions to operate an amusement arcade out of the former Weavers Bar on Lower Cork Street.

Concerned Citizens of Mitchelstown, a campaign group opposed to the plans, have collected more than 1,000 signatures against the development, claiming the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956 did not apply to the town following the adoption of a motion by councillors on the issue in 1984.

They also expressed concern that there were already three bookmaker shops within 200m of the planned premises.

However, the planning appeals authority upheld the original decision of Cork Co Council to give the go-ahead for the opening of an amusement arcade by Perks which operate similar businesses in Cork city and other towns in the county including Youghal and Midelton.

An Bord Pleanála said any reference to gambling legislation was not a planning issue.

The board concluded that the change of use of the building, subject to a number of conditions, would not seriously injure the amenities of the area or property in the vicinity.