The conversion of a former children’s centre into a nursery has been blocked after the council raised road safety concerns.

Leeds City Council refused planning permission for the proposed re-use of the Rose Lund Centre on Sixth Avenue in Rothwell.

Nursery provider the Garden Pre-School said the scheme would boost early years provision in the area.

Previously, local residents had approached the YEP to express frustration with the council.

Leanne Squires, who has been at the forefront of the campaign, said that they have “had the door slammed in our face”.

“It’s a really deprived estate with a bad reputation”, she said. “Now there’s no community space left. It’s really sad.

“The list of things for what it could be used for is endless. The building has so much potential.”

But the council said not enough information was given on parking and road safety impacts of changing the use of the site.

The council said it was aware the new facility would help with the care of children.

But its decision notice said the application “provides insufficient information to allow the local planning authority to definitively assess the impact of the development upon public and highway safety.

“Furthermore, no information have been provided with regard to other existing uses within the building and their associated parking.”

In its application, the Garden Pre- School said the scheme would be a “natural continuation” of use for the building.

It said: “The site’s layout, location, and existing facilities make it an ideal setting for a high-quality early years educational environment.

“The development is entirely in keeping with the local character and will provide substantial benefits to families in Rothwell through education, support and employment.”

The new day nursery would have opened between 7am-6pm, Monday to Friday.

The planning report said no external alterations would have been needed to the single-storey building except for nursery signage.

It said: “The applicant has not stated how many children will be enrolled into the day nursery, but has confirmed that there will be 13 full-time members of staff.”