PLANS to build a multi-million pound extension to York District Hospital have been backed by councillors.

The project to create a new ophthalmology, diabetes and medical illustration building was welcomed by members of City of York Council's city centre planning committee.

In April, the £16 million expansion scheme, also including a full revamp of the first floor of the hospital, got the go-ahead from the National Health Service.

The move was a victory for the Evening Press Fight For Sight campaign which highlighted the long waiting times for some elderly patients.

The major new building at the rear of the hospital entrance area and the first-floor revamp will mean major benefits for patients.

These include cuts in waiting times for cataract operations, an improved critical care unit, better surgical wards and improvements to the day surgery and treatment unit.

The only reservation councillors had was a loss of staff car parking which they feared could be transferred to the main visitor car park, reducing the number of spaces at the hospital.

Coun Martin Brumby, chairman of the committee, welcomed the news that the hospital trust was about to submit a green travel plan to the council which would address the long-running problems with parking at and around the hospital.

Coun Gerald Dean said: "I support these plans and welcome the hospital's proposals."

The other councillors agreed and passed the plans.

Development control officer Jonathan Carr had advised councillors to give their backing to the new building scheme.

He said there should be no additional noise or traffic caused by the new building which would adversely affect the nearby residential areas.

The nearest properties were 35 metres away in Filey Terrace, Mr Carr said, and trees and bushes and the railway line which runs between would screen the new development.

He said cycle parking levels would be maintained.

Work is expected to begin in the autumn.

Updated: 12:03 Friday, July 06, 2001