A BID to build a huge amusement arcade near Blackburn's historic cathedral quarter has gone to the planning inspector after it was rejected by council officers.

Sceptre Leisure Solutions, based in Chorley, wants to transform the former White Bull Hotel, in Church Street.

Opponents to the plans, unveiled last year, include Blackburn Cathedral and Blackburn Civic Society, who deem it "inappropriate."

Behind closed doors, council officers rejected the plan in November last year before it even got to the planning committee of Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Now Sceptre Leisure has appealed to the planning inspectorate, based in Bristol, against the decision.

The building is currently used as a pub called Jam, which is owned by Thwaites brewery. The director of regeneration, housing and neighbourhoods for the council, Adam Scott, said: "It was refused as the premises occupy a highly prominent location in the Cathedral Conservation Area and would have a unacceptable impact.

"The development would also be contrary to Local Plan policies and incompatible with the council's future plans for Church Street ."

Canon Andrew Hindley, of Blackburn Cathedral, who sent a letter opposing the plans, said: "We feel there should be a retail outlet there for people to spend money rather than put it in slot machines."

The Blackburn Diocese announced a £12million redevelopment project of the cathedral grounds in July 2003, creating new jobs and shops. Church bosses said the plan would prevent the area from becoming "a night-time wasteland."