Boylesports plans to relocate Ballyconnell shop

Boylesports has submitted plans to relocate its existing shop in Ballyconnell Town.

The betting operator is looking to move into the former retail premises known as Maguire’s, also on Main Street.

BoyleSports 2 Unlimited submitted their plans to Cavan County Council recently, and a planning decision is due shortly before Christmas.

The company has applied to change the use of the existing vacant ground floor retail unit to a Licensed Betting Office, and to include for all new signage and associated site works.

Maguire’s store closed earlier this year.

An architectural design statement submitted as part of the Boylesports application outlined how the internal layout of the property will be “reconfigured” to accommodate the requirements of a bookmakers facility.

“This includes the demolition of non-structural elements and the creation of new spaces for betting counters, customer seating areas, administrative offices, and staff facilities.”

Of benefit to Boylesports is that the former Maguire’s premises is much larger than their current space, and the intention is that once construction work is complete and facilities ready, trading in the existing location on Main Street will be “ceased immediately”.

The change, the company states, “not only aligns with the business needs but also addresses the importance of complying with building regulations, creating employment opportunities, and improving the services and facilities offered to our customers, staff and the community.”

The existing Boylesports falls on a number of fronts by failing to “meet the necessary space requirements” to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for staff and customers. The “inadequate space” also limits the ability to provide proper staff facilities or for staff to “seek refuge” in case of intruders or emergencies.

“The existing premises at the current location does not offer adequate space for customers, leading to overcrowding and discomfort. The proposed development at Main Street, Ballyconnell, addresses these deficiencies by offering a larger and more suitable location. This relocation would enable the provision of spacious staff facilities that comply with building regulations and ensure a safe refuge area in case of intruder situations.”

The new bookmakers’ facility will also result in the creation of “employment opportunities”.

“The new establishment will require staff to operate the betting counters, manage customer services, and oversee administrative tasks,” state Boylesport, who further note that “through careful attention to detail and sustainable design practices, the project seeks to contribute positively to the streetscape and the overall vitality of the area.”