Could Tenby be getting a ‘retro gaming lounge’ - in place of the former Poundland/Royal Gatehouse Cinema building.

A planning application [Reference: NP/25/0714/ADV) has been submitted to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority from Matthew Mileson of MB Games Ltd via agents Asbri Planning Ltd, for a proposed ‘non illuminated sign’ on the front elevation for ‘CONTINUE? Retro Gaming Lounge’.

Poundland, which occupied the former Grade II Royal Playhouse Cinema building, closed permanently on October 18 as part of a nationwide restructuring by new owner Gordon Brothers.

The cinema screened its last film back in 2011, before Poundland opened in 2015.

The company behind the proposals ‘Continue Arcades Ltd’ - have similar gaming lounges in Swansea, located on Princess Way, and also in Plymouth and Taunton.

Its synopisis states: ‘Welcome to Continue Arcades, where gaming dreams come to life! The go-to arcade destination, we offer a diverse selection of games and a vibrant gaming community.

‘Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun day out, Continue Arcades has something for everyone., offering a route back in time, high street escapism and endless fun.’

It offers a ‘Free Play’ gaming lounge that has zero restrictions upon entry, with customers paying once for unlimited play .

Some of the company’s lounges that are already operational feature - basketball, arcade tables, pinballs, retros, racers, shooters, retro consoles, pool, shuffle board, air hockey and more, with almost everything offering multiplayer options.

The planning application submitted to PCNPA states: ‘This application forms part of a wider scheme for the change of use to the former Gatehouse Cinema.

‘Advertisement consent is sought for a non-illuminated aluminium composite folded panel that will be bolted onto the front façade of the proposed building, in replacement of the existing signage (Poundland).

‘The sign will measure 4.435 metres in width, 1.2 meters in height and 0.05 meters in depth. The sign will act as the Fascia Sign for the proposed development.

‘It is considered that the proposed advertisement will not have a detrimental impact on the quality of the environment, along with being within a proportionate scale of the building. It is considered that the proposed signage will reflect site function. Furthermore, due to the sympathetic scale and design of the sign itself, it is considered that the proposal will not result in any adverse visual amenity impacts.

‘The proposal is reduced in sized compared to the existing Poundland advertisement. The sign will not be illuminated.

‘Given the above it is considered that such proportionate signage in association with the proposed retro gaming lounge is acceptable and does not adversely affect visual amenity.’

‘In reviewing the various policies stated and the TAN 7 advice notes, it is noted that special consideration must be taken into account regarding being located within a National Park and the building itself being a listed building.’

Interior alterations are planned to follow the main design concept of an 80s space warehouse - with inspiration taken from 80s movies and games set in the future.