Arcade plan for Market Gallery site in Poole Dolphin centre

Corporate Amusement Services has submitted a planning application for a High Score arcade in the unit formerly occupied by the Market Gallery in Poole’s Dolphin centre.

If approved, the family-friendly complex would add to the burgeoning entertainment offerings set for the shopping centre – with a Flip Out adventure park scheduled to open in early May this year.

High Score is an ‘amusement only’ venue which boasts more than 50 arcade playing positions and 200 different titles which are all free to play.

Arcade plans for former Market Gallery site in Poole. (Image: Corporate Amusement Services)

The free-play element means pre-booking is required with pricing at £11.95 per person for 60 minutes game time. High Score also limits its visitor numbers per session to ensure there are no queues or crowding.

Touted to be open seven days a week, the facility does not cater for over-18 gambling machines.

David Field, founder of Corporate Amusement Services, said: “We are looking forward to bringing High Score, a brand-new entertainment centre, to Poole for locals to enjoy.

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“Our vision is to provide a safe and fun experience that brings the community together, creating a positive environment and promoting engagement between families and friends.

“Poole will be our fifth site since we launched in 2020, and we are delighted to be a part of the Dolphin’s long-term strategy to future-proof retail in the local community.

“Our offering brings something unique to the town centre and we are delighted to be creating 10 new jobs within the area.”

The former Market Gallery store in Poole. (Image: Newsquest)

The long-standing Market Gallery store closed suddenly in January with its owner citing escalating costs.

John Grinnell, centre manager of the Dolphin, added: “It is exciting to see plans to bring a new, unique concept to Poole which supports its growth as a thriving retail venue in the area.

“We are continuing to re-frame and reimagine the Dolphin for the future, and are proud to have a strong pipeline of vibrant new retailers joining us over the next couple of months.

“By delivering a more diversified retail experience for residents and those visiting the town, we are putting Poole on the map by attracting heavyweight brands from across the UK.”

The proposals, while submitted, are not yet visible on BCP Council’s planning portal but should become so in the coming days.