YORK'S shortage of affordable housing and rising property prices were discussed by city councillors.

Tempers flared as a Labour motion was substantially amended and then passed by the ruling Liberal Democrats.

David Horton tabled a motion calling on the council to work with the Government and the Regional Assembly to increase the supply of affordable housing in the city.

The amended motion instead called on the Government to amend its policies.

Coun Horton blasted: "There are no teeth in the amendment; no direction to the council to take up the matter."

But council leader Steve Galloway attacked Labour for lamenting the number of flats in new developments, saying many had been approved when they were in power.

He said: "You are just hypocrites. You are hypocrites. You have no idea."

Coun Horton referred to the national Fordham report and said many young families were being forced out of York by high prices.

He said: "Whether seeking to take out a mortgage or secure private accommodation, these newly-formed households are often fighting a losing battle in their desire to remain living within a city where they were born and brought up."

He said the Lib Dems' policies would "exacerbate rather than attempt to resolve the problem".

Tracey Simpson-Laing, who seconded the Labour motion, said York's housing targets were inadequate.

Ann Reid, executive member for city strategy, said: "The housing situation is critical for a significant number of our residents but we, as a council, have a good record of tackling the problems using innovative solutions. But we cannot do it alone."

Coun Galloway added: "If we were able to keep what we already have in the city then, as Ann Reid says, we could make massive inroads."

Residents fear impact of students

A PETITION was presented calling on City of York Council to consider the impact of student housing on local communities.

The petition, which contains 314 names, was presented by Heslington councillor Ceredig Jamieson-Ball, and has received the backing of the Heslington Parish Council.

Coun Jamieson-Ball said: "There is clearly a great deal of concern about the impact of student housing on local communities. I believe that it is important that an analysis is carried out to learn more about the potential effect of increased student housing and what can be done locally to address any problems."

Residents in Badger Hill recently campaigned for the city council to take action to prevent homes being converted into student lets. They said students made less use of local services.

Campaigner Graeme Cooke, who collected signatures for the new petition in Badger Hill, said: "There are a number of issues surrounding student housing which I would like to see the council address."