COUNCIL planners came face to face with objectors when they gathered to walk the controversial site of the £60m extension to York's Coppergate shopping centre.

The planning committee, which will decide whether to follow council officers' recommendation to approve the plan this Thursday, was shown around the site yesterday by Richard Akers from the applicant, Land Securities.

Chalk lines marked out the proximity of the new complex of shops and flats to Clifford's Tower and cranes held a line of flags aloft at the height of the projected roof line.

"We just want to make sure people understand exactly what the extension is going to look like and that they have all the information they need to reach a decision," said Mr Akers.

"We certainly feel it's in keeping with the character of the area and almost half an acre of what is now car park will be a public, open space, surrounding Clifford's Tower.

"A sizeable group opposed to the scheme also turned out to hear the details of the scheme but remained vehemently opposed to the development, which they believe is desecration of the historic heart of the city.

Thomas Arthur, who says he was born and bred in the area, believes the new development will not only be an eyesore but also turn out to be a white elephant in the long term - a view which was widespread among those opposing the scheme.

Another local resident, Moira Johnson, said: "There will no longer be any view of Clifford's Tower or any kind of vista as you look towards the Castle Museum.

"It will be another splash of bright red brick and pantile in the city centre, completely out of keeping with its historic surroundings.

"This development will be half as big again as the original plan and stands even closer to the tower than the Stakis Hotel - what I would like to see is a public park running down to the Foss that everyone can enjoy."

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