MORE than two years after top balloonist Per Lindstrand unveiled plans to give tourists a view of a lifetime from a tethered helium balloon 400 feet above York, the project has been grounded.

The company behind the ambitious project revealed today that it will probably now be another two years before it takes off - but insisted it will still eventually happen.

Jetville Ltd said the scheme had been shelved because it was part of a bigger, ongoing project in the city which was not yet ready.

However, a spokesman refused to identify the project, or reveal the prospective location which had been earmarked for the balloon base.

He said: "The balloon and the rest of the project work in perfect harmony, so I am therefore happy to wait.

"It will probably be another two years now, maybe 18 months at the most optimistic, but I am confident it will eventually go ahead and York will get this balloon."

The Press approached the York Museums Trust about rumours the balloon might be sited in the Museum Gardens.

Michael Woodward, the trust's director of business development, said: "We were approached about the possibility of the balloon being sited in the Museum Gardens. However, there are no plans that take this any further at the moment."

The Press revealed in November 2005 how Mr Lindstrand, who has captured numerous world records for hot air balloon flights, wanted to launch a helium-filled HiFlyer from the city centre.

He said the balloon would be tethered to the ground by a steel cable - with up to 25 people in the gondola looking down on the Minster, Clifford's Tower and all the city's other great sights after paying a £10 basic charge for a 15-minute trip.

York had been chosen as the country's first city tourist destination, ahead of cities such as Edinburgh, because it was "perfect" with fantastic views.

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of Visit York said: "We're very excited about the plans for the helium balloon rides over York and it is disappointing to hear that this project has been delayed.

"However, I'm sure this will be well worth waiting for and will add a fantastic new dimension to York's visitor offer when it arrives."