THE controversial relocation of a York homeless centre looks set to be approved - despite widespread condemnation of the new design.

Council planners have been advised to approve the Peasholme Centre's move to Fishergate, next to the Mason's Arms pub, but the application has been opposed by conservationists and local people.

English Heritage said they were "very disappointed" with the design, which they had potential to "harm the conservation area".

One forthright resident labelled it an "appalling monstrosity" which looked like a cross between a garage and a warehouse.

Local councillor Andy D'Agorne voiced concerns over the design, and also over the site as a whole, saying its location next to a busy road raised questions over public safety.

He also accused the ruling Liberal Democrats on City of York Council of pressing for the matter to be resolved before the May 3 election, and called the decision to decide the matter before the poll "extraordinary".

But council leader Steve Galloway said all planning applications were dealt with on their merits.

He said the application had been considerably refined, and added: "It is simply time for the application to be determined in line with the council's normal procedures."

The plans going before councillors are a revised version of earlier proposals. The first plans prompted 22 responses from residents or businesses, with the latter ones attracting a further nine.

Their concerns included the principle of developing the site; the loss of employment land; the suitability of the site for a homeless centre; the building's design; and its impact on the historic and natural environments.

A report to councillors concluded: "The proposal is to replace existing buildings which have structural defects with a new purpose-built, part two/part three-storey building to accommodate a homeless persons' hostel with staff accommodation and training facilities.

"There are no policy objections to the proposed use in this location. The resultant relationship with adjoining properties is considered to be acceptable".

"In response to concerns raised, the applicant has made revisions and improvements to the design of the building.

"These revisions have gone some considerable way to addressing concerns raised by officers and consultees."