A ROW has blown up over a decision not to install timber cladding around the shipping containers at the new Spark:York complex.

Critics have claimed the move will breach planning permission for the city’s innovative new business start-up and social space, but Spark:York has denied this, claiming there was never a condition relating to the use of timber.

The Press reported in February last year that architect’s drawings accompanying a planning application to City of York Council showed the outside mostly clad in timber, partly in response to public feedback.

But Spark:York revealed earlier this week that the scheme would not open with outer wooden cladding "as originally presented", although this was still being considered as a future addition.

A spokeswoman said this was in part linked to the rising cost of materials over the last 12 months.

York architect Matthew Laverack contacted The Press to claim the lack of cladding would breach planning permission, saying: “It is an intrinsic part of the scheme.”

Developer John Reeves said he had made a formal complaint to planning enforcement as a representative for two neighbours about the lack of cladding.

But Spark:York director Tom McKenzie said: “In terms of planning, there was not a condition specifically relating to the use of timber on the outside exterior.

“The line from the planning department from the pre-app stage was that a continuous material on the outside of the scheme was needed.

“By using the existing container facade and adding murals, we are in keeping with this advice and also have the opportunity to bring something genuinely exciting and of historical relevance to the scheme.”

He said the public response so far had been "hugely supportive" from those passing by the site over the weekend, from local residents and visitors to the city.

“We have made this change clear to the planning department and are awaiting an official response,” he added.

A council spokeswoman said: “All new developments need to liaise with the planning authority to ensure they have met planning conditions. We are discussing planning requirements direct with Spark.”