A FORMER shoe shop in Oxford city centre is set to become a betting shop, if planning permission is given the go-ahead.

The unit in St Michael's Mansions in Ship Street was formerly home to Russell and Bromley before the chain moved into the Westgate.

Now owners Jesus College want to use it to re-house Ladbrokes, currently based in Northgate House, which is set to be re-developed.

The college is seeking planning permission to change the use of the unit so it can be used as a betting shop.

Under the plans, no changes would be made to the existing shop front and the betting giant would fill both the ground floor and the basement.

Acting on behalf of Jesus College, town planner JPPC is seeking to convince the council to grant permission, despite it being below target for the number of city centre units that have a retail use.

It argues the new shop would increase footfall in Ship Street which is also home to the Matthew Clulee hairdressers and a restaurant.

Jesus College's planned redevelopment of Northgate House on Cornmarket was approved last month.

The controversial plans, which include a large tower, will see the existing building completely redeveloped to include retail units, 68 student rooms, teaching rooms or an exhibition space.