PROPOSALS to build more than 20 flats on the outskirts of York's city centre are set to be thrown out after more than 70 letters of objection were received.

The Highways Department, York Civic Trust and English Heritage have also criticised the scheme which would see 24 flats on the site of Clifton Garage, at Clifton.

Council officers have agreed with objectors saying it is too large, would not fit in with surrounding buildings and would cause problems overlooking other houses.

It is the second time plans have been put forward to build flats on the site which is currently occupied by a car rental company.

The proposals include plans to demolish the existing buildings and construct a three- and four- storey block.

The first and second storey would each have eight flats and the third storey would have seven with a single flat on the fourth storey. The flats would have one, two and three bedrooms.

A total of 75 letters were received by residents who objected for a number of reasons including the impact it would have on the area, the effect on nearby properties, noise pollution, traffic problems and risk of flooding.

Other criticisms included lack of storage for bicycles, the possible damage it could cause to archaeological remains and the lack of affordable housing available.

Some objectors said they supported the redevelopment in principal but had reservations about this particular scheme.

The Highways Department said the car parking in the plans was inadequate and during the building vehicles would not be able to enter the site leading to congestion.

York Civic Trust said a more modest scheme was required and English Heritage said the scheme failed to enhance the conservation area and could harm it.

A final decision on the scheme will be made at a City of York Council planning meeting at the Guildhall, on Thursday, from 2pm.

Updated: 08:17 Monday, March 08, 2004