Casino’s luck runs out as receiver moves in

One of Dublin’s most exclusive casinos, Silks Private Members Club, on Earlsfort Terrace, is to be offered for sale after being put into receivership by Nama.

The Lisney agency is seeking €1 million for the four-storey over basement period building close to the National Concert Hall, which is elegantly furnished and includes a private bar, lounge, kitchen, casino and heated barbecue annexe. Ross Shorten of Lisney says that whoever buys Silks may have the option to purchase the furniture and fittings including gambling tables and roulettes.

The club first opened its doors almost 12 years ago. Its directors were Leonard Patrick and Nanette Kinsella with addresses in Co Meath.

The club was particularly well known for its casino card games, blackjack and roulette. Its website promised that its “internationally trained croupiers ensured that guests enjoyed gaming in a friendly and professional environment”.

The club operated between 8pm and 6am from Tuesday to Saturday and supplied free food and drinks to players. The gaming was spread over three floors and membership, which was free, was available on presentation of a driver’s licence or passport.

In a notice on the internet, the club announced it was under new management and said a full calendar of events would be appearing soon.

However, receivers Duff and Phelps were appointed to handle the sale of the premises after the club closed last year.

There are about half a dozen private casinos in Dublin. The terraced building at 24 Earlsfort Terrace has an overall floor area of 416sq m (4,478sq ft).

And, in addition to a private members club, it can also be used for offices, residential, medical related consultants, education, hotel or night club.

It is about a 10 minute walk from Grafton Street and is directly opposite a site currently being redeveloped as a new headquarters for solicitors Arthur Cox.