HOW should York look in 21 years time?

That is the question City of York Council wants residents to answer.

The authority is asking people for their views on how the area should develop over the next 20 years in a bid to ensure that the city maximises its employment, retail, recreational and residential potential.

In doing this it says it needs to protect what makes York special, and also enhance those areas that need improving.

With this in mind the council's city development team has drafted up a vision for the area which sets out a number of issues and options for the city centre.

Following consideration by councillors it will go out to public consultation in July.

The plan covers three key themes; economic vitality, historic environment and community life.

It also highlights five areas in the city centre where there is thought to be room for improvement.

Among these it says the Castle Piccadilly area could be regenerated through good quality developments; the main gateways to the city like Micklegate and Goodramgate would benefit from improved investment and spaces like St Sampson's Square and King's Square, as well as the various snickleways, could be better used and could have improved lighting and security.

The council says it wants to hear how people think the evening economy should be developed; what type of office and retail developments should be considered and what improvements are needed to help manage traffic jams.

The city centre is described as being the cultural and community heart of York and the plan asks people how they want it to develop, what services are needed, what kind of homes are needed and how the atmosphere can be improved, particularly in the evening.

The full city centre area action plan will be on the council's website at www.york.gov.uk/environment and will be available to view at the council's reception at 9 St Leonard's Place and at all York libraries from late June.

Alternatively, copies are available now by phoning the city development team on 01904 551463 or 01904 551474.