Amusement arcade not what’s needed says Brown
Plans to turn the former Bank of Ireland building in Downpatrick into an amusement arcade would be a “massive mistake” warns Patrick Brown, South Down MLA.
The proposed plans from Oasis Retail Services Limited would see a £350,000 refurbishment of the site.
Patrick Brown said: “I want to see major investment in Downpatrick, a town which has been overlooked for so long. I campaigned with the message to ‘restore our county town’ and I am working hard to bring stakeholders together to transform Downpatrick.
“We need to look at matters such as rates reform, building on our rich historic significance, an evening economy strategy, improvements to infrastructure and of course attracting private business into the area. However, an arcade is not a natural fit for our town.
“Elements of these establishments can feed on deprivation and encourage gambling addiction.
“We need positive investment for the town, which adds to the lives of people that live here.”
