Former Ilkeston pub could be turned into adults-only 'casual entertainment' centre

Planning permission has been granted to turn a former Ilkeston pub into an adults-only 'casual entertainment' centre.

Lifeware Ltd, which owns the Queens Counsel pub in Market Place applied to transform the ground and first floors of the building into the new venture.

The original planning documents submitted to Erewash Borough Council, says the new amusement centre will provide “casual entertainment and relaxation for adult shoppers”, as well as creating six to eight full-time jobs.

The documents, submitted by Planning Potential, on behalf of Lifewave Ltd, said: “With pubs in Britain continuing to struggle, the Queens Counsel is no different and the owner has identified an amusement centre as a way of ensuring the site continues to play a positive economic role in the local community.

The proposals will involve changing the use of the ground floor and first floor (Planning Potential)

“These proposals present an opportunity to breathe new life into the site, which will soon fall vacant due to a significant decline in revenue in recent years.”

The plans argued that there were already a number of pubs in the area - and that the amusement centre plan would ensure the continued use of the building, DerbyshireLive reports.

They also stated that there would be “no noisy machines or activities” and that it would be different from family-orientated amusement arcades traditionally found at seaside resorts.

Granting permission, borough council planners said: “There were no problems for which the local planning authority had to seek a solution in relation to this application.

“The current premises licence will have to be surrendered and an Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) Premises Licence under the Gambling Act 2005 will have to be applied for and be issued by the licensing authority. The consumption of alcohol in AGCs is strictly prohibited.”

There are already similar venues currently in Ilkeston - such as Cashino and Oak Amusements, which are both in Bath Street.

The plans said: “The amusement centre will be attractive to adults of all ages and will add vibrancy and a complementary offer to the current offers in Bath Street, providing healthy competition.”