THE design of the latest scheme to expand York's Coppergate Centre was today described as "architecturally inept" by York Civic Trust.

Land Securities has put forward £60 million plans for shops, restaurants and a department store in the Copperside Riverside development.

John Shannon, chairman of York Civic Trust, said there was no real evidence to say that such a large number of shops was needed, especially with the development of shopping on the Internet.

"To go ahead with a scheme of doubtful value in the face of these technological changes means that this city is, in fact, standing on the brink of an environmental disaster."

He added: "We believe the scheme, as submitted, is architecturally inept and needs a totally new approach and examination of the York scale and aesthetic."

He also said the city council should not act as "judge and jury".

"We think the Secretary of State should call in the scheme before any planning approval is given, thus causing a public inquiry to be held at which all may speak."

Land Securities assistant director, Richard Akers, said they had carried out a rigorous impact assessment which showed the shops were needed and its findings were to be examined by the council.

He said they had not yet made a presentation to York Civic Trust and were keen to meet with them to allay their "fears and misconceptions.