‘Finglas deserves better', Dublin TD sets up petition to oppose proposed gaming arcade
The planning application for the ground floor of 44 Main Street, Finglas, was lodged with Dublin City Council on February 13.
The proposed development reads: 'Change of use of the ground floor from commercial unit to gaming/amusement arcade with ancillary site works.'
Paul McAuliffe, Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin North West, has been working with Finglas Tidy Towns, other local organisations, local businesses and residents who are leading the opposition to a proposed gaming arcade.
According to Mr McAuliffe, formal objections have already been lodged to Dublin City Council, but were unsuccessful, with an appeal now being submitted to An Bord Pleanála.
'This development is not in line with the community's vision for Finglas,' Mr McAuliffe said.
'We want a main street that supports families, local businesses, and a safer, more vibrant village – not one shaped by gambling and anti-social behaviour.
'The arcade does not align with the Dublin City Development Plan's focus on sustainable, community-led regeneration
'It risks damaging the character of the village and setting a harmful precedent. It's too close to schools and youth services and could increase late-night disturbances.
'Finglas deserves better. An Bord Pleanála can help protect our village by rejecting this proposal.
'Formal appeals can only be lodged by those who originally objected, and it is expensive. But this petition will be cited in the appeal being lodged – your voice can help show how strongly felt our objections are,' he added.
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Rory Hearne, Social Democrats TD for Dublin North West, also spoke out on the proposal.
'Unfortunately, Dublin City Council has granted planning permission for a gaming/amusement arcade in Finglas village, despite objections from myself and others on behalf of Finglas residents.
'A lot of local people, including Finglas Tidy Towns, have been on to me today very concerned about this.
'As has been pointed out by the Finglas Cabra Drug and Alcohol Task Force – an organisation that does great work in providing support for families of people with gambling-related issues – a gaming/amusement arcade will normalise gambling, particularly for younger people.
'A development like this is in direct conflict with the Dublin City Development Plan which prohibits amusement centres in residential areas. Finglas Village already has five bookmaking shops, is this really a development that residents need?
'There are serious concerns among residents that the development of a gambling-related business such as the one proposed could result in increased anti-social behaviour.
'There are many services near the proposed development which cater to the needs for vulnerable people.
'Finglas Village would be much better served by developments such as youth and community spaces, cultural spaces, restaurants and shops, which serve and enrich the community. We will continue to work on stopping this.'
Dublin City Council and An Bord Pleanála have been contacted for further comment.
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