A BID to turn a former East Lothian bargain store into a bowling alley has been given the go ahead despite concerns it could add to anti social behaviour.
Battista Property, who run two snooker venues in Edinburgh, plans to turn the former B&M store in Musselburgh town centre into a snooker, pool and bowling facility.
Planners have given the go ahead for the change of use of the store which was also a Woolworths in the town for more than 20 years, but have stated that it does not mean it will be able to sell alcohol.
Four objections were lodged with concerns about an increase in anti-social behaviour, which is an ongoing issue in the town, safety for residents at night and a lack of parking.
An officers report on the opposition said: “Some objectors perceive there to be no family friendly facilities or spaces in Musselburgh High Street with most venues being alcohol based.”
However, it also received a letter of support saying it would bring the building back into use, create jobs and “a place for youths to release their energy”.
In a statement to planners the applicant said the move will improve the vitality of the town centre adding: “The area has a noticeable lack of leisure venues in the town centre, and this will add a valuable facility to the High Street which will strengthen the attraction of the town centre.”
And they pointed to their previous experience running similar venues in Edinburgh and across Scotland with others in towns and cities including Glasgow, Perth, and Dunfermline.
The plans would see the large store turned into an indoor sport venue with seating areas for food and drink at the front of the premises and a variety of sports available including an indoor mini golf.
Planning officers said concerns about the potential to serve alcohol would be addressed by the council’s licensing board should the operators apply for permission.
They added: “The use in itself could function without a license given the bar component would be ancillary.”
Approving the new leisure facility, they said Police Scotland the the council’s own anti social behaviour team had been consulted before giving it the go ahead.
