‘We were left with the extremely hard business decision of when to close the business’: Planet Tenpin announces closure
Beloved Nightcliff bowling alley Planet Tenpin is closing down in May after more than 40 years in operation.
Northern Territory
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BELOVED Nightcliff bowling alley Planet Tenpin is closing down in May after more than 40 years in operation.
A statement from Planet Tenpin said despite efforts to relocate the business due to the landlord planning for a new development, the $2.5 million bowling alley project had a shortfall of $1.2 million.
In March a development application, lodged by Auspac NT, proposed to build a childcare centre for 100 children, community centre, restaurant, medical clinic and offices at the current bowling alley site.
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“We have been successful in finding a new location, securing a lease and creating plans for what would be an awesome bowling alley beyond the Berrimah Line,” the statement read.
“However, the $2.5 million project has a $1.2 million shortfall and we have not secured a finance deal.
“Therefore, with development going ahead and no future for us in this location, we were left with the extremely hard business decision of when to close the business.”
The statement said it was a devastating blow for the professional bowling community.
“As we have the only sanctioned lanes for the sport of Tenpin in the Top End, we understand this comes as hard news to the Tenpin bowling sporting community who now face their biggest risk ever — a sport with no facilities in which to train and compete,” it read.
“While it seems ludicrous to close a profitable business and one in which the community and a sport rely upon, here we are.
“The alley has proudly support the community for over 40 years. It is an integral part of so many people’s lives and critical to a sport.”
The statement said when owner Bruno Maglieri took over the “failing business” in 2017, he and his staff put their hearts and souls into stabilising the business while aware the landlord had development plans.
“Our first year in small business was a rollercoaster as we navigated our way into processes and systems to see our business stabilise and grow,” it read.
“Year two saw us face 28 break-ins over a 13-month period. These break-ins cost us enormously, financially, physically and mentally. Year three saw us face two lightning strikes on the aircon unit for the playground which eventually closed the Kids Planet, reducing our business model significantly. And our fourth year has had us navigate through a pandemic.
“Along with the rest of the Territory, we learned to steer our way through and indeed saw a 20 per cent increase in sales.
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“All the while understanding that the landlord had development dreams for this site. We worked tirelessly to create a future opportunity for the business, the sport and many, many people with a disability.
Planet Tenpin will close its doors on Monday, May 3 after the Master’s events on the May Day weekend.
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