CAMPAIGNERS against the Coppergate Riverside scheme are planning to lay flowers at the foot of nearby Clifford's Tower to mark the anniversary of one of York's darkest hours.
The Castle Area Campaign says tomorrow is the anniversary of the killing in 1190 of about 150 Jewish men, women and children at the tower.
"York's population of Jews had taken refuge inside the then wooden tower from a rampaging mob," said spokesman Stuart Wilson.
"Seeing no possibility of escape, many of the unfortunate Jews chose to die by their own hand, while those who surrendered were put to death by the mob."
Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott is currently deciding whether or not to grant the go-ahead to a £60 million scheme to build a shopping complex next to the tower, after receiving a report from the planning inspector who conducted a public inquiry last year.
Mr Wilson said some people had suggested that the proposed shopping complex showed a lack of respect, and would sully York's heritage.
The campaigners intend laying their flowers at noon tomorrow, at the plaque at the foot of the tower.
Updated: 12:13 Saturday, March 15, 2003
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