PLANS to build accommodation for hundreds of students in York look set to get the go-ahead - despite opposition from residents.

An application to demolish the old Pullman Bus Depot in Navigation Road, and replace it with student housing, has been recommended for approval by City of York Council planners.

S Harrison Developments Ltd, of Malton, wants to build accommodation for 231 students, with study bedrooms, and living, dining, laundry and management facilities.

But residents have voiced objections to the proposals, claiming the area's "sedate lifestyle" is inconsistent with student life. Concerns have also been raised over availability of parking, loss of light, and the fact that the site is in a conservation area.

Navigation Road resident Edna Sayers, 62, has chronic pulmonary disease and uses a wheelchair to get around. She has lived in the road for 12 years and is strongly opposed to the development.

She said: "I really hope the councillors don't pass this, as there are a lot of old age pensioners and people with disabilities around here, and students with their loud music and drinking is the last thing we want."

Fellow objectors John and Barbara Pettitt have lived at Rosemary Place for 15-years.

Mr Pettitt said: "We have enough trouble in Walmgate as it is with people breaking windows and generally making a mess. It looks like this could get the go-ahead, but I think it will totally ruin the quiet atmosphere around here."

Karen Barber, another Rosemary Court resident, said: "I've lived here four years, and it's a peaceful lovely place to live, but the students will put paid to that."

Chris Hale, group design manager for S Harrison Developments, said: "Harrison will transform an eyesore site into something positive for the city, providing attractively-designed and much-needed student accommodation on the brownfield site.

"This is a site which has been allocated for student accommodation in the city development plan, and Harrison is keen to fulfil this requirement."

In his report to councillors, development control officer Simon Glazier said: "The development would be managed on site, which should reduce the risk of problems arising as a result of noise or antisocial behaviour.

"The applicant is considering whether it would be feasible to require all occupants of the block at the rear of the site to leave via Hurst's Yard and Walmgate only, in order to reduce pedestrian flows on Navigation Road itself, and also to reduce the use of the walkway alongside Rowntree Wharf.

"An update on this matter will be reported at the meeting."

The council's planning committee will meet next Thursday, in the Guildhall, to discuss the application.

Updated: 10:29 Thursday, April 20, 2006