Belfast·SPG012 Sensitive Uses·Page 25·5.2.4

Suitability of locations for amusement centres

Amusement centres are not normally acceptable near residential properties or close to schools, churches, hospitals or hotels; consideration must be given to location, appearance, type of amusement, neighbouring amenity, and hours of operation. In conservation areas, the effect on character is the major consideration.

The impact of an amusement centre on the amenity and character of an area will usually depend on the location of the premises in relation to other development, its appearance, the type of amusement to be provided, the impact on neighbouring amenity and the hours of operation. Regarding the location, amusement centres are not normally acceptable near residential properties or in close proximity to schools, churches, hospitals or hotels. In a Conservation Area or other area of special architectural or historic interest, amenity value may be higher and here, the major consideration will be the effect of the proposal upon the general character of the area. In areas where one amusement centre may not be out of place, it would be permissible to take into account the effect of larger numbers on the character of a neighbourhood.

Source — /Users/richardhill/Documents/planning-arch-project/data/documents/belfast/SPG012 Sensitive Uses.pdf