Scores of objections over retail scheme

Independent traders in the city centre are continuing in their push to hold a public inquiry into the decision by York Council to approve a planning application for the out-of-town shopping centre at Monks Cross.

The Department for Communities and Local Government confirmed yesterday that more than 70 letters had been received, with the vast majority of the correspondence outlining concerns over the planned development.

More letters are expected ahead of a June 15 deadline before Local Government Minister Eric Pickles decides whether to call in York Council’s decision on May 17 for a public inquiry.

The Campaign For York’s spokesman, Nick Eggleton, stressed that concerns remained over the development, but added the focus for protests had switched from York’s Guildhall to Westminster. Campaigners fear many independent retailers who form the bedrock of the city centre’s retail sector will be forced to close by the Monks Cross development.

Mr Eggleton, who has run his own business – Fifty50 Hair Design and Technology in Little Stonegate – for five years, said: “The local debate has ended, but the fight goes on. The concerns have not gone away, and we would urge anyone with reservations about the Monks Cross development to write to the Government.”

The retail scheme is a vital element to ensure that a 6,000-seat community sports stadium, which will become the new home of York City Football Club and York City Knights rugby league team, is built. The shopping centre will help to finance the £19m stadium with nearly £15m.

York Council announced this week that a long-term planning vision had been withdrawn amid concerns over the impact of the retail development and community stadium.

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