CAMPAIGNERS backing the £100 million Hungate revamp have been told work may start on the long-delayed project by the middle of next year.

Outline plans for 720 homes were submitted in November 2002. But, to the dismay of supporters and developers, they have yet to go before planners.

The Hungate Community Trust - formed to ensure the plans meet community needs - last night heard how the Coppergate II inquiry stalled Hungate by exposing the need for a York retail demand survey and a new planning brief.

Concerns were also raised about the impact of building a new Morrisons supermarket at Foss Islands and increased traffic levels on the development.

Fears were expressed about the speed with which projects like the sale of the council-owned Barbican Centre moved compared with Hungate, a mainly private venture.

Trust chairman Gordon Campbell-Thomas backed guideline designs for the semi-derelict area unveiled by developers last night.

They showed minor alterations to those previously displayed, including a new street running through the site and minor height cuts to blocks facing Stonebow.

He said: "The community has been involved in a very in-depth consultation process and do not want to see that wasted.

"We have been disappointed with the lack of progress, but want to deliver the community aspirations that will make Hungate an exciting place to live."

He said he hoped Hungate was not sidelined by the Foss Islands Road revamp.

"I don't see it as a threat," he said. "The two can co-exist together."

Council planner Derek Gould told the meeting the authority was backing Hungate, which includes leisure and office space.

Mr Gould said a retail study would take up to two months before members were consulted on plans in late summer. If a revised application was received before October, developers said this could pave the way for a possible mid-2005 start, if planners gave Hungate approval.

Mr Gould refused to be drawn over Morrisons, but said Hungate was unlikely to be ditched at this stage. "The council team is aware of the work done by the trust."

Phil Darcy, managing director of Crosby Homes, part of the joint venture company Hungate (York) Regeneration, said: "Our aim from the outset has been to produce a scheme of the highest quality."

He said designs revealed last night, incorporating ideas from a public exhibition, moved that goal closer.

Updated: 10:54 Wednesday, March 10, 2004