JCD Group proposes €3m leisure complex on Half Moon Street

JCD Group has submitted a planning application to Cork City Council to invest €3 million in converting a vacant basement on Half Moon Street into a destination entertainment venue.

The proposed 24,000 sq ft complex would feature bowling lanes, pool tables, darts, karaoke, a games arcade and a fully licensed bar serving food, operating seven days a week from 11.00 am to 12.30 am. An alcohol licence is currently being procured and security staff would be deployed as required.

Planning documents indicate the likely operator could be Lane7, a UK leisure brand with two Dublin venues, and JCD says it is in detailed discussions with several international operators. The development is expected to create 25‑30 jobs and would not include any form of gambling or betting.

Engineers have assessed flood risk for the riverside basement, concluding that fluvial and tidal flooding can be managed with barriers and that the forthcoming €200 million Lower Lee flood relief scheme will further improve conditions.

JCD argues the venue will boost Cork’s night‑time economy, increase footfall and support surrounding retail and hospitality businesses, while revitalising a space that has remained unused since the building’s completion in 2011.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Pedro Dias / Pexels.