Midleton, County Cork is poised to see a new gaming arcade open its doors at , pending final approval from Cork County Council. The development, spearheaded by Coalquay Leisure, aims to transform a terraced house at – the date the plans were submitted – located at 54 Main Street, into a mixed-use space featuring a gaming arcade, a café, and a five-bedroom apartment.
The project represents a continuation of Coalquay Leisure’s expansion strategy within East Cork. The company recently secured approval, following an appeal, for a similar arcade development in Ballincollig, overcoming an initial rejection by Cork City Council in . That earlier proposal faced significant local opposition, culminating in a protest attended by hundreds.
The Midleton plan involves a change of use for an existing shopfront to accommodate the café, alongside the amalgamation and reconfiguration of a residential unit and storage shed to create the gaming arcade at ground level. A single-storey extension to the rear of the building is also included in the proposal, further expanding the arcade’s footprint. The upper floors of the building will be refurbished to create a single, five-bedroom apartment.
Coalquay Leisure, which also operates casinos in Cork City, registered the plans with the council just before the end of last year. The company’s move comes as the gaming and leisure sector continues to evolve, with operators seeking to diversify their offerings and tap into new markets. The building itself, dating back to the late 18th century, has previously housed an estate agent and a chiropody centre, suggesting a history of commercial use.
However, the proposal isn’t without its critics. Social Democrats Cork East TD Liam Quaide has voiced concerns regarding the inclusion of a gaming arcade in the town centre, particularly given its proximity to Main Street. Quaide highlighted the potential for the arcade to “promote and normalise gambling and addiction-related behaviours,” raising questions about its compatibility with the town’s objectives for a family-friendly environment.
“This element of the proposal raises serious and legitimate questions in relation to the promotion and normalisation of gambling and addiction-related behaviours,” Quaide stated. He further emphasized the importance of maintaining a diverse mix of businesses along Main Street and questioned whether a gaming arcade aligns with the broader goals of fostering a vibrant town centre that supports independent retail, tourism, and community life.
Quaide’s concerns echo broader debates surrounding the societal impact of gaming arcades and similar entertainment venues. While proponents argue they provide leisure opportunities and contribute to local economies, critics often point to the potential risks associated with gambling and the potential for negative social consequences. The debate is particularly sensitive in Ireland, where gambling regulations are under ongoing scrutiny.
The proposed development also includes ancillary works such as elevational upgrades to the building, the installation of fascia signage for “Distillery Lanes,” and the provision of bin storage facilities. Access to the café and apartment will be provided directly from Main Street, while the arcade itself will be accessible from Distillery Lanes, located to the rear of the property.
The decision on the Midleton application rests with Cork County Council, with a decision date currently scheduled for . The deadline for third-party submissions and observations passed on , meaning the council is now reviewing the application and considering any feedback received from the public and local stakeholders. The outcome will likely set a precedent for similar developments in the region and could influence future planning decisions related to gaming and leisure facilities.
Coalquay Leisure’s expansion into Midleton represents a calculated move by the company to capitalize on opportunities in East Cork. The success of the project, however, will depend not only on securing planning permission but also on addressing the concerns raised by local representatives and ensuring the arcade operates responsibly within the community. The company did not respond to a request for comment.
