POLICE have voiced concerns over plans for new student housing in York, saying it could lead to antisocial behaviour.

Jim Shanks, architectural liaison officer for North Yorkshire Police, said developers of the proposed block must work with the force to improve their plans.

Fining Associates wants to knock down two houses in Millfield Lane, and built a 40-bedroom student block.

But Mr Shanks said there had been problems in the area before with crime and antisocial behaviour, and the developers’ plans did nothing to address those issues.

He said: “The area surrounding the proposed development has in the past suffered from problems of antisocial behaviour, particularly with youths congregating around the area of St George’s Methodist Church and its grounds. The church is just a stone’s throw away in Millfield Lane.”

He said the open area outside the planned student block could end up being used as a meeting place for local youngsters, leading to more problems.

“Any antisocial behaviour in this area would have an impact on the quality of life of both students and residents of surrounding properties,” he said.

Several local residents have objected to the plans, citing concerns over parking problems, noise nuisance, antisocial behaviour and the general loss of character of their street.

As reported in The Press last week, City of York Council’s archaeologist has also called for the application to be deferred, until a study of the land has been carried out, as it is believed it may hold remains of medieval farming systems.

Fining Associates’ planning agent has said the site is suitable for students.

In a formal statement supporting the firm’s planning application, he said: “The site is located in a residential area, but adjacent to a local centre comprising a number of local shops and services to the east, a number of University of York buildings further east still, and the main university campus a short distance to the south.”