MORE than 100 people have taken part in a drop-in session to discuss the future of the Terry's factory site.

Council planners are staging a major public consultation over what should happen to the former York chocolate factory, which closed down at the end of September with the loss of more than 300 jobs.

They want to know what residents think of a draft development brief for the Bishopthorpe Road site, which will guide prospective developers.

The drop-in session was held at St Chad's church hall on Tuesday, with those taking part including two classes from nearby Knavesmire Primary School.

The brief for the site suggests a variety of possible uses, including:

A landmark hotel and conference centre, possibly linked to the nearby racecourse

A headquarters for a major organisation

A tourist attraction

Science units

Council leader Steve Galloway has said that the brief could mean York seeing new sports facilities, Science City-type jobs and leisure attractions all integrated into a sustainable community, adding: "We may see the city's first "live/work" units."

Developers and builders from all over Britain have expressed an interest in the factory.

Derek Gauld, principal city development officer, said of the St Chad's event: "It was very busy and most people had very good comments, recognising that sadly the factory has closed and they want it developed well.

"They have come up with some good ideas already."

People will also be able to have their say on the brief at a meeting being organised by York Open Planning Forum, a community group to help people understand the planning process.

Council officers will present their ideas and will be questioned by residents at the meeting, being held on November 30 at the Central Methodist Church, in St Saviourgate, at 7.30pm.

Updated: 10:12 Thursday, November 24, 2005