Plans for a gambling arcade in Ballymun have been refused by Dublin City Council following strong opposition from local residents, community groups, and public representatives.
The application, lodged by Peter McNally, sought to open a “gaming and amusement arcade” in the heart of the north Dublin suburb, operating from 10am to 10pm daily. Planning documents described a facility with rows of gaming machines offering “interactive entertainment,” with customers paying to use the machines.
However, the proposal was met with a groundswell of resistance. More than 50 formal objections were submitted, with critics warning the development was entirely inappropriate for an area already grappling with social and economic challenges.
Among those who opposed the plan were the HSE’s addiction services, youth and community projects, local sports clubs, businesses, residents, TDs, and councillors. Many raised concerns about the arcade’s proximity to a HSE drug treatment clinic, located just metres away, and the potential for gambling harm in an area already vulnerable to addiction-related issues.
Local councillor Conor Reddy, speaking to Nova News, welcomed the decision and said the rejection reflects the will of the community.
In a post on X he stated:
"A victory for community, common sense and people power! Well done to all those who logged objections, especially those ppl, organisations + businesses who supported others to have their voice heard. This is what we've can do when we stand together - Ballymun is Brilliant".
A similar development was controversially approved in nearby Finglas earlier this year, a decision currently under appeal to An Bord Pleanála.
