PLANS for a multi-million pound office building, which could bring 150 new jobs to York, look set to get the go-ahead.
The Helmsley Group has already won consent for a new headquarters for Hunters estate agents on land beside the River Foss, next to the former Transco gas infrastructure site, at Heworth Green.
But the Pocklington-based developer subsequently lodged a fresh proposal, to include a medical surgery and pharmacy within the four-storey building.
It had been due to be considered by city councillors on April 27, but the Helmsley Group withdrew the application after a planning officer's report said the revised scheme should be rejected on design grounds.
But now fresh plans submitted to City of York Council have been recommended for approval by planners.
Development control officer Andrew Graham said the new proposal had "attempted to address officer concerns by rethinking the design details and providing the required information".
Previously Mr Graham had said the old design "failed to create a building of such high-quality design that such a potentially prominent site deserves".
It also "created a monotonous flat roof structure that would appear dominant and intrusive within its context", he added.
But in his latest report, Mr Graham said: "Based on the various negotiations, the revisions do appear to address the initial concerns of the case officer by enhancing this important landmark plot and breaking up and varying the mass of the structure."
The Press reported last month that Hunters needs the new headquarters building for when its operation to franchise its brand gets into full swing across the UK.
Richard Peak, director of The Helmsley Group, said: "We have worked very closely with the council, who have been very supportive of the scheme. What we are proposing is exactly right for the city - a mix of attractive office space and a doctors' surgery with pharmacy, close to the heart of the city. Hunters have taken 20,000 sq ft of office space and we are in discussion with other potential occupiers for this popular development.
"The proposed scheme will be visually very appealing.
The application will go before councillors on Tuesday at 4.30pm.
Updated: 09:13 Wednesday, May 10, 2006
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