Controversial plans to convert a disused shop into a betting shop have been thrown out by planning inspectors following public opposition.

William Hill Ltd submitted an application to Bradford Council to turn the former Food Weighouse in Market Square, Shipley, which has stood empty for more than two years, into a betting shop.

But the proposals have fallen foul of planning officers, who refused the application as an "inappropriate use" of the site, a council spokesman said.

The refusal follows objections from Shipley councillors and business leaders in the town.

They said greater variety of shops was needed and that the town already had enough gambling establishments, including an amusement arcade just a few doors down from the Food Weighouse.

Bradford councillor Kevin Warnes (Green, Shipley) said it was "excellent" news that the planning application had been refused.

He said: "The general feeling is that Shipley town centre already provides several centres for gambling.

"Any thriving business area has to have a mix of different kinds of shops and businesses and these types of prime sites in Shipley market place need to be developed in a way that brings trade into town."