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

Gambling firm Count Cash, of Middlesbrough, had twice tried and failed to gain permission from council chiefs to convert a former caf on Cockerton Green into the 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 caf and 30 gaming machines after making an appeal to the Secretary of State.

Inspector Victor Crumley's report was released last week 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 believes that the vitality of Cockerton's main shopping area would be unharmed.

He said: "Although no information on customer numbers was provided, it seems to me likely that while the smaller caf 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 added, as it was separated from the shopping centre. The centre is also 'hidden from all but a few residential properties around the green.'

Furious 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