A MULTI-MILLION pound sports complex destined for York's green belt has finally been given the go-ahead.

The planning inspectorate has decided that the Civil Service Sports Council application does meet the "very special circumstances" needed to build on the land, off Wigginton Road, near Clifton Moor.

But before building commences, a "pay and play" scheme must be established to allow non-club members to use the sporting facilities.

Malton-based developers S Harrison Development Ltd must also submit a landscaping scheme and travel plan to be approved by City of York Council.

When the development is finished, 12 all-weather five-a-side football pitches, two further football pitches, a cricket square and four all-weather tennis courts will help York's bid to attain the highest level of sports participation in England.

The 11-acre complex will also encompass a two-floor sports building with a distinctive metal curved roof, swimming pools, four health and fitness studios, a gym, two squash courts, changing rooms and a sauna, as well as steam, aromatherapy, spa and relaxation rooms.

A crche, bistro, bar and offices will also be included.

The appeal decision stated the council did not have a strategy or programme to meet the need for more football and cricket pitches. It stated that at certain times, the sporting facilities would be offered to schools free of charge and that about 70 jobs would be created at the proposed complex.

City of York councillors originally threw out the plans last year, saying they did not include enough transport information and that the building would affect views of York Minster from the north.

Objections claiming a lack of public transport were later withdrawn after the developers and First bus company agreed an extension of the No 6 service to the site every ten minutes.

Liberal Democrat ward councillor Richard Moore today said he had not had the chance to fully read the inspector's 14-page report.

But he said he had "mixed feelings" about the decision.

Coun Moore said: "While I'm sorry that the inspector has chosen to allow development in the green belt, there's at least the bonus of having new sports facilities, providing these are made available to the public."

Updated: 10:19 Monday, October 04, 2004