A BID to overturn a planning refusal to allow an amusement arcade in the heart of Horsforth has failed.

The plan to convert ground floor offices in Town Street was thrown out last year by members of Leeds City Council's plans west sub-committee.

They were backed by more than 1,000 people who signed a petition blocking the move, along with MP Paul Truswell and Horsforth's three ward councillors.

And while moral objections about under-age gambling and the bad influence of arcades could not be taken into account under planning law, the key issues were this week supported by the government's appeals inspector.

Horsforth ward councillor Chris Townsley ((LibDem), said they needed it 'like a hole in the head'.

Horsforth Civic Society also objected to the proposal as did staff at nearby Horsforth School in Lee Lane, where the Parent Teacher Association protested to the city council.

They said an amusement arcade within easy access of both secondary and primary school age children was unsuitable and would increase noise, litter and vandalism in the area.

Many objections centred on the conservation area status of Town Street in which, they claimed, an arcade would be out of place.

Coun Townsley said: "The people of Horsforth just don't want it, it's not suitable for the village and would undoubtedly attract young people to congregate outside."

He said: "The prominently-positioned amusement centre would appear out of keeping with the traditional village-like character and so spoil a feature which makes an important contribution to the conservation area.

"It is also close to both housing and schools, in particular the proximity to St Margaret's CE Primary School is not wholly appropriate and it would be difficult to prohibit children entering the premises."

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