YORK’S council leader has said he plans to meet residents who fear 1,800 new homes will be built in their community after being accused of “snubbing” an opposition councillor.

Nigel Ayre, who represents Heworth Without, claimed authority leader James Alexander refused an invitation to meet him and visit land east of Metcalfe Lane which could be turned into housing and a windfarm under City of York Council’s draft Local Plan, to see the impact it would have on its “natural environment”, including the Millennium Way.

Coun Ayre said the “snub” said much about Coun Alexander’s attitude to residents. But the council leader said he had previously visited the site and was planning a public meeting in Heworth Without soon.