A GOVERNMENT inspector who approved controversial plans for a gaming arcade in Darlington has explained his decision.

Gambling company Count Cash, of Middlesbrough, had twice tried and failed to gain permission from council chiefs to convert a former cafe in Cockerton Green into an amusement centre.

The proposals sparked protests among residents, schools and church leaders, who submitted a 1,000-name petition to Darlington Borough Council.

But the company was successful in securing consent for a small cafe and 30 gaming machines after making an appeal to the Secretary of State.

Yesterday, inspector Victor Crumley's report was released and detailed his opinion that the arcade would not be noisy, would not lead to a rise in youth crime and would have little adverse effect on the shopping centre.

He said that noise from the machines would be largely inaudible outside the premises and that nearby houses would not be affected by any other sounds.

The intended closure of the arcade at 6pm, and the age limit of 18 were also seen as positive moves towards ensuring that it would not become a gathering point for youngsters.

Mr Crumley also believed that the vitality of Cockerton's main shopping area would not be harmed.

He said: "Although no information about customer numbers was provided, it seems to me that while the smaller cafe element proposed would generate fewer customers and less activity than before, this reduction would be offset to some extent by customers of the amusement centre."

The effect on the conservation area would be minimal, he said, because it was separated from the shopping centre. The centre is also "hidden from all but a few residential properties around the green".

Angry residents had condemned the plans, which they believed would lead to a rise in crime, graffiti and vandalism, as well as truancy among school pupils.

Count Cash has said the arcade is strictly for people over 18, with the majority of customers expected to be over 50