Ex-Northern Bank site application for amusement arcade

Ex-Northern Bank site application for amusement arcade

11 September 2024

PLANS have been lodged to transform the ground floor of the former Northern Bank building in Downpatrick into an amusement arcade.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council planners are currently examining the proposal which has been lodged by a Magherafelt company.

It is the latest proposal for an amusement arcade in the town centre with previous proposals lodged for premises in Market Street – including the former Bank of Ireland building – and Scotch Street.

The latest proposal for the former Northern bank premises built in 1824, which is one of the most instantly recognisable buildings in the town centre, has been described as the “continuation of a worrying trend” by Downpatrick Town Committee.

The organisation is also questioning why the town is seeing an increase in planning applications for amusement arcades.

Papers lodged as part of the planning application say the proposed arcade will employ three staff at the former bank which enjoys protected status.

In addition, the papers argue the proposal will “secure the upkeep and survival” of a building which has been vacant for seven years and “regularly the subject of vandalism”.

The proposal will also result in the removal of the Northern Bank lettering above the entrance door.

A design and access statement argues the applicant has thought carefully about how people will be able to use the proposed arcade and the proposal will not impact on Downpatrick’s primary retail core.

In addition, the document insists there will be no detriment caused to the wider Downpatrick neighbourhood.

“The proposed development is a town centre use, complies with policy and therefore the issue of precedent cannot arise,” it continues.

“In the interests of visual amenity, the appellant is willing to accept a condition controlling signage and in the interests of amenity condition, controlling opening hours.”

A spokesman for Downpatrick Town Committee described the latest application for another amusement arcade as the “continuation of a worrying trend” and questioned why Downpatrick is seeing an increase in these types of applications.

He said there are currently two bookmakers and two adult gaming centres situated in the town.

“We believe building owners should be seeking to encourage family orientated hospitality offerings and diverse retail options to increase the appeal and vibrancy of Downpatrick,” the spokesman added.

News of the latest amusement arcade application comes after the local council agreed to draw up a new policy to refuse permission for such developments and adult gaming centres.

Under the new policy, amusement permits will not be issued in towns regarded as key visitor destinations and no new arcades or gaming centres will be allowed close to schools, youth centres, residential institutions for the elderly, children’s care homes and hostels for the homeless.

While each application will be assessed on merit, the council says the new policy is designed to ensure each is examined in granular detail with the focus also on proximity to homes.

In addition, only existing amusement permits will be renewed, if they are part of a major, retail-led mixed use development, an upper storey development or replacing an existing amusement facility.

Council officials insist the new policy is designed to enhance the tourism and cultural appeal of the area and protect its image and built heritage.

No permits will be issued for town centres regarded as key visitor destinations.

Previously, local politicians have objected to proposals for the three new amusement facilities in Downpatrick which they described as “inappropriate”.