Rock guitarist Mark Yates is bidding to open a tattoo parlour despite objections from residents.

Terrorvision member Mr Yates has submitted a planning application to Bradford Council to turn a disused off-license and grocer’s shop in St Johns Court, Baildon, into the tattoo studio.

Planning officers have backed the application, which will be decided by councillors next week.

Mr Yates, who is set to tour with the band, said: “I have been a tattooist for quite a while now. I’m a collector and a fan of tattoos and have now become an artist. There is a big call for this. I’ve had a vast amount of customers from Bradford and all over the country.”

However, his plans have met opposition from residents living nearby.

They claim the studio, which would be between a beautician and a hairdressers in the small shopping precinct, would increase parking problems and attract youths and undesirable customers, with one resident saying “the wrong sort of people” will come to the area.

But Mr Yates, of Otley Road, Baildon, said: “There is a collective of us who are looking to bring the idea of tattoo studios out of the dark ages. People have got an image of a smoky room full of sailors, which is outdated. It will be very strict on hygiene, like a dentist’s.”

A report to the Shipley Area Planning Panel said the parlour would be operated by appointment only between 9am and 6pm throughout the week.

The report reads: “It is unlikely the proposed use would cause harm to neighbouring occupiers,” adding, “The changes within the local environment would be minimal.”

Councillors on the Shipley Area Planning Panel will decide on the application at a meeting at Shipley Town Hall on Thursday.

Councillor Val Townend (Con, Baildon), said she had objected to the application because of fears the studio would create parking problems.