Continued use of Mayo amusement centre rejected

THE continued use of an existing amusement and entertainment centre in Castlebar has been refused by An Bord Pleanála.

The rejection relates to a premises at Duke Street in the town, which previously received a three-year grant of permission. That period has now expired.

Under the new Castlebar Town & Environs Local Area Plan, which came into effect last January, amusement arcades are ‘not normally permitted’ under the zoning objective for the area in question.

In the appeal to continue its use, the appellants, SAF Leisure Limited, said the development is completed to a very high standard, and has successfully traded problem-free for the past three years, bringing increased activity, footfall, lighting and employment into this part of the town centre.

The location is set back from Duke Street and not on any retail thoroughfare. The premises is in a predominantly commercial area.

It was also submitted that the development does not affect residential, amenity or the value of existing residential properties. There have been no problems, especially with regard to noise or nuisance.

An inspector with An Bord Pleanála found the development was acceptable and should be granted permission. However, the board disagreed with this recommendation.

It ruled the development would be contrary to the land use zoning objective in the local area plan, and its continued use would impact on the vitality, viability and environment of the town centre and would not provide for appropriate town centre uses.