SPARK:YORK has been granted planning permission for a controversial canvas roof installed in October.

Planning officers had asked for the roof to be amended so it does not overlap with the sign at the entrance, but said due to practicalities it does not have to be changed until the canopy is put up again next year.

Cllr John Galvin, speaking at a planning meeting, said: “I understand people’s concerns about this development.

“But whatever we think, it has had quite a degree of success. It has bought people down Piccadilly.”

But Cllr Mark Warters said: “The planning system in this city is being held to ridicule on their own land and it is totally wrong.

“It matters not one jot if this is refused because it will remain in place.”

Several councillors said they were disappointed the application was submitted after the roof was installed.

And Cllr Paul Doughty raised concerns about a number of empty units at the site and said he hopes the roof would potentially “support the sustainability” of the venue.

The planning application was approved by a majority vote.