CAMPAIGNERS who have fought to stop a caf being turned into a gaming arcade look likely to lose their battle.

Councillors are expected to approve the conversion of the Take-a-Break caf, on Cockerton Green, in Darlington, next week.

If Count Cash Amusements' proposals are approved, 30 gaming machines will be installed. The plans sparked a wave of protests when they were revealed last year, with schools, church leaders and traders joining forces to oppose the development.

They fear that there would be a negative effect on the shopping area, increased vandalism and truancy among children.

The development has also been opposed by the Darlington Youth Offending and Community Safety Service, which said the Cockerton area had high levels of anti-social behaviour among youngsters.

Cockerton Churches' Credit Union, which is run by volunteers and encourages responsible financial manage- ment, said it was concerned about the impact the premises could have on the area.

But Darlington Borough Council - which has refused the proposals once before - is likely to give the go-ahead after receiving amended plans.

The company has now proposed that the front of the premises be a caf, with gaming machines for over-18s at the rear.

Planning officer Andrew Harker said: "The concerns that have been raised by objectors have been noted and taken into consideration.

"However, it would be difficult for officers to recommend a refusal of planning permission on moral grounds or on grounds of noise and disturbance. There is no evidence to suggest that the over-18 rule in relation to amusements will not be effective in discouraging youths from congregating at the premises.

"At the same time, the revised scheme would overcome the previous refusal reason by retaining a caf which can be used by persons of all ages."

The application will be considered on Wednesday, when dozens of objectors are expected to attend a planning meeting.

Council officers are recommending that a condition be attached, limiting the opening hours to 9am to 6pm, Mondays to Saturdays.