A PLANNED cycle path at York's new tennis centre could become a focus for drug users, according to objectors.

Walmgate Neighbourhood Forum, University of York Students' Union and Woodlands Respite Care Home have all objected to the planned route.

In a report to the City of York planning committee, members of Walmgate Neighbourhood Forum say they have "serious concerns" about security issues and believe it will produce an isolated, enclosed environment.

They said: "Potentially it will become the new focus for the drug users, replacing the disused pavilion in the sports field."

If given the go-ahead the three- metre wide cycleway will enter the site from Hull Road and follow a route to the west of the site to join the cycle path from University Road with the university grounds.

Woodland Respite Care Home also believes it will increase the security risk and highlight other problems such as motorbikes accessing the track and lighting affecting residents in the east wing of the building.

The proposal was being discussed at a planning meeting at the Guildhall, York, today.

Updated: 12:16 Thursday, August 29, 2002