Retention approved for expansion of Mayo casino

Mayo County Council has granted retention for the expansion of a Mayo gaming casino.

The local authority has approved retention for the Castlebar development.

The application sought retention for the expansion of the Gold Rush Casino gaming/amusement arcade on Rush Street in the town.

In the recent years, the arcade has extended to include an area at ground floor level which previously formed part of Flynn’s bar and at first floor level an area which was previously residential accommodation.

On March 24, 2026 , the property’s owner was notified with a Warning Letter over the alleged unauthorised change of use and extension of the Gold Rush premises.

In response, the owner’s agent HW Planning responded confirming that a retention planning application seeking the regularisation of the subject works was currently being prepared and will be submitted to the Planning Authority for consideration.

 In a planning statement, submitted to the council, the applicated highlighted the recent decisions by An Coimisiun Pleanala to overturn a Mayo County Council decision and grant permission for the continued use of a similar business at Duke Street in the town.

“The proposed extension of the Gold Rush Amusement arcade will not result in any additional amenity impacts on the receiving environment of Rush Street and surrounding areas, The development does not result in any additional amenity or environmental issues (eg noise or similar) on Rush Street from that of the previous public house use and has assisted in the continued viability and success of both Goldrush and Flynns pub as two town centre businesses in Castlebar,” the statement continued.
the statement continued.

There were a number of objections to the project, with one observation claiming that the area is the “epicentre of anti-social behaviour in the town of Castlebar.”  Concerns were also raised about opening hours and a “disregard for proper planning regulations.”

Mayo County Council approved retention subject to six conditions. These included restrictions on noise levels and opening hours.