New pool and snooker complex in Laois given the go-ahead
Laois County Council have granted permission on a conditional basis for the new complex in Graiguecullen
A new leisure complex in Laois has been given the green light for planning permission.
Simon Fitzmaurice of Byrne Fitzmaurice Entertainment Ltd submitted an application to Laois County Council in March to change the use of the existing Würth Trade Store in Unit 5 of the Shamrock Business Park in Graiguecullen to a leisure complex.
The complex would comprise of pool and snooker rooms as well as golf simulator rooms.
The applicant, Mr Fitzmaurice, is the Senior Manager of Asset Care with ESS Group and is a SightRight accredited snooker and pool coach.
Embarking on this new venture, he brings with him an extensive background in snooker and pool. This year, he was crowned the Ultimate Pool Professional and he enjoyed previous success as a World Pool Team Champion and European Pool Team Champion.
The pool champion aims to provide a high-end and alcohol-free leisure complex dedicated to snooker, pool, and darts.
In the documents submitted alongside the application, Mr Fitzmaurice said the complex's goal is to "become a national destination for Ireland's top amateurs and professionals and to enhance and support Carlow and Laois snooker, pool and darts teams to become Senior All‐Ireland champions."
Th proposed development also seeks to provide young people in the area with a source of entertainment as well as provide tables with adequate spacing to accommodate wheelchair users and other people with disabilities.
Coaching will also be on offer at the centre and it will also host exhibitions and tournaments for all levels and categories including for men, women, juniors and those with disabilities.
The application includes interior works in the building, such as the demolition and alteration of internal ground floor walls, the erection of signage on the front facade of the building, and all other associated site works necessary to facilitate the development.