Cork’s ‘Super Casino’ Wins Planning Battle After Council Rejection

_{Former Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Ken O'Flynn expressed numerous concerns. (Image: Ken O'Flynn/FB)}

From reps and squats to roulette, slots and poker, an Coimisiún Pleanála has approved plans to convert a former gym in the Cork suburb of Ballincollig into what locals have dubbed a “super casino,” overturning Cork City Council’s earlier refusal.

The Commission upheld an appeal by Coalquay Leisure Limited, which sought to change the use of a former fitness centre at Westside Retail Park into a gaming and amusement arcade. The development, spanning 347.5 square metres, was found to comply with the Cork City Development Plan 2022–2028, according to the decision released this week.

Planning Reversal Clears Path for Major Gaming Venue

The planning authority said the arcade would represent “a permissible form of commercial leisure development at an appropriate location in Ballincollig.” It added that the project would not “seriously injure the residential or visual amenities” of nearby properties and could help offset vacant commercial units in the area.

Among the planning conditions imposed is a restriction on operating hours, the venue cannot open between 1 a.m. and 9 a.m. Notably, the Commission rejected its own inspector’s recommendation to close the arcade earlier at 11 p.m.

Coalquay Leisure operates several Goldrush Casino venues across Ireland, including in Dublin, Cork, Naas, Ennis, and Wexford.

Council and Residents Opposed the Plan

Cork City Council had initially refused permission, arguing the arcade would not fit with the family-focused nature of neighbouring retailers such as Aldi, Regatta Great Outdoors, Maxi Zoo, and Mr Price. Planners cited the “adult-oriented nature” of the proposed business, its limited footfall, and inadequate night-time surveillance as factors that created a “high potential for nuisance in the immediate vicinity.”

The council also noted the proximity to another amusement centre, saying the project would lead to “an excessive concentration” of similar uses in the area.

More than 20 third-party objections were lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála, many from nearby residents. Some described the proposed venue as a “super casino” and raised concerns about crime, disturbance, and littering, as well as the proximity to schools and housing estates.

A former Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork, Ken O'Flynn, said: "I am deeply concerned by An Coimisiún Pleanála’s decision to approve the conversion of a former gym at Westside Retail Park, Ballincollig, into a large-scale gaming and amusement arcade, overturning Cork City Council’s initial refusal. This decision has sparked significant unease among my constituents, and I share their worries about the potential impact of this so-called ‘super casino’ on our community.

Many residents in Ballincollig and surrounding areas have voiced strong concerns about the establishment of a gambling facility near schools, family-oriented retail spaces, and residential neighbourhoods. The arcade’s operating hours, extending until 1am, risk increasing anti-social behaviour, littering, and disruption in an area ill-suited for such late-night activity. These concerns are amplified by the growing crisis of gambling-related debt and addiction that I have observed across my constituency. Families are grappling with the devastating effects of both regulated and illegal gambling, alongside a troubling rise in online and in-home gambling that is increasingly coming to my attention.

Gambling addiction is a growing public health issue that causes financial ruin, emotional distress, and social harm. The approval of a large amusement arcade in a suburban setting sends the wrong signal and highlights the urgent need for stronger oversight. I call on the Government to implement stricter regulations governing the licensing and location of gambling venues. These should include mandatory community impact assessments, restrictions on proximity to schools and residential areas, and tighter controls on operating hours. Furthermore, we must bolster support services for those affected by gambling addiction to help families recover and rebuild."

Mr O'Flynn concluded: While I respect the independence of the planning process, I stand with my constituents in their opposition to this development. I will raise this matter in the Dáil and advocate for a comprehensive review of national gambling policies to prioritise community well-being over commercial interests. I encourage anyone struggling with gambling-related issues to contact support services such as GamblingCare or reach out to my office for assistance.

Developer Defends Appeal as Support for Night-Time Economy

In its appeal, Coalquay Leisure argued that the council had failed to consider Cork’s policies supporting a stronger night-time economy. The company said entertainment and leisure businesses play a key role in keeping urban areas active and preventing long-term vacancy.

Coalquay also contended that the former gym already had extended hours and an adult clientele, claiming that planners’ objections were based on “personal preference and local opposition rather than actual evidence.”

The company further noted that nearby retail units were “no more intrinsically family-friendly than those on Ballincollig’s Main Street,” where pubs, bookmakers, and another casino already operate side by side.

With the appeal now approved, Coalquay Leisure can proceed once planning conditions are met. The decision clears the way for what could become one of Munster’s largest gaming and amusement arcades, though local opposition suggests community tensions may continue as the project moves forward.