EXPERTS have gathered in York to discuss how to protect green spaces and create new ones as the city expands.

A special workshop held by City of York Council involved groups including the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Forestry Commission, Environment Agency, University of York, Sustrans and English Heritage.

They discussed how to develop a green infrastructure strategy for York, including providing habitats for wildlife, supporting healthy lifestyles and protecting woodland.

Cllr Dave Merrett, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said York’s green spaces,- including parks and play areas, tree lined roads, strays, river corridors and nature conservation sites - were vital to what made the city a great place to live and work.

“We need, in these financially challenging times, to ensure existing green spaces and facilities are protected and enhanced where possible, but that we also ensure new housing and other developments provide quality green space as the city expands," he said.

"This strategy will provide a basis for how together we can plan and manage our city’s green infrastructure over the next 25 years."

He said the forum was the start of a dialogue between interests across the city to establish a common understanding of priorities and opportunities and of what could realistically be delivered.