By Jessica Micallef
A former newsagency will be transformed into an amusement parlour in Gisborne.
Councillors last week gave the green light for the town’s first amusement parlour to go ahead at 22 Brantome Street.
It will comprise 34 video gaming machines and will be open seven days a week.
Macedon Ranges resident Vicky Mezzapesa proposed the parlour as a “safe, secure, fun, all-ages entertaining environment”.
At last week’s council meeting, Ms Mezzapesa said she was looking forward to providing the Macedon Ranges with its first amusement parlour.
“This will have a positive impact on our community.
“It’s well positioned within a commercial precinct with direct access, adjoining amenities and parking complimenting our shopping district, promoting economic growth and creating employment opportunities.
“My vision is to establish a friendly and social environment – a reputable business.”
The amusement centre will be open between 10am-10pm seven days a week. No food and drink will be served, three staff members will be on site at all times and there will be CCTV security.
The planning permit application received eight objections which included financial impact on families, noise, anti-social behaviour, how the proposal met the character of the town and the impact on shoppers.
During the meeting, Cr Jennifer Anderson raised concerns of a possible gambling aspect while playing the games.
“What I do hope is that this is an occasional use and not something that becomes a craving or addiction or something that people have to turn up to,” she said.
“I hope it compliments other activities that we have on in our shire.
“I do understand that different people have different ideas for entertainment, different places, and different stimulants. It is important to provide a variety of activities for a variety of people.
“I am pleased there will be CCTV there so that means people that attend will be in a safe environment. I do hope that this application remains a safe, secure, fun and entertaining place.
“It was important for us to have a bit of discussion about this so that the community is quite clear that this is not gambling.”
Ms Mezzapesa said the games would not be set up as gambling equipment to pay out money. She said gamers would be rewarded with a token after play which could be exchanged for a prize.
“That is the way we are giving back.”
