THE sweet sound of birds in full song will soon be heard in the middle of York city centre - at the City Screen complex.

A new design project by Atmospherics aims to re-introduce natural sounds to various parts of the riverside building in Coney Street, including the sound of woodland bird song.

The song, pitched at a volume which will be scarcely audible, is to be played to "address the problems brought about by working in a high-tech environment", said project co-ordinator Jonathan Bonner.

"We are exploring the possibilities of helping to release and improve the well-being of people working in computerised electrical environments that are all too often the modern day office.

"Long exposure to almost subliminal birdsong seems to have a noticeably positive effect which enhances the natural environment. In an already pleasing aesthetic space like the City Screen, we aim to provide something for people to think about while they wait to see their film.

"The City Screen was willing to give it a try and I feel that it will complement the venue well."

Mr Bonner is hoping to attract York businesses and appropriate public spaces to the Atmospherics project in the New Year.

He added: "The 21st Century is becoming devoid of natural elements. I believe this is something which needs looking at.

"What we are seeing is that people working in these types of environments are experiencing psychological and physical problems.

"The birdsong is actually recorded from an Irish wood. That was a deliberate decision as I was looking for a pure sound which was of a certain kind."

Anyone wanting more details about the scheme should contact (01904) 642007.

Updated: 11:42 Saturday, December 08, 2001