THE long-awaited redevelopment of an eyesore piece of York land is now under way.

The land, at the corner of Crichton Avenue, Clifton, has been derelict since the Imperial Hotel was demolished in the mid 1990s.

But a new mini-community is due to spring up there after developers S Harrison last week started work to build 12 flats and seven houses.

Residents' groups have regularly called for the land to be developed and have welcomed the work starting.

A spokeswoman for Clifton Residents' Association said: "It is great news. A lot of hard work has been put in by a lot of people to get this site redeveloped.

"We want to see Clifton get back the excellent community spirit it used to have."

Maureen Butterworth, who lives opposite the site, said: "My brother and I have lived here all our lives and remember the Imperial Hotel in its heyday. It's brilliant to see work starting to bring the site back to life."

The work is beginning after a partnership was formed between Harrison, City of York Council and housing group Tees Valley. Coun Ruth Potter, the council's executive member for housing, said: "This extends the council's commitment to providing affordable housing for families and young people and will be a great boost for the area on the back of the work by North Clifton Regeneration project."

Updated: 14:56 Thursday, September 12, 2002