A THIRD site could be added to a list of possible new homes for York's Peasholme Centre for homeless people.

City of York Council leader Steve Galloway has given officers delegated powers to decide whether land in Jewbury could be a viable site for the 22-bed supported homes charity.

York architect Matthew Laverack suggested the land by the former public toilets at 14 Jewbury, and the nearby entrance to the Foss Bank shopper car park, could meet the needs of the council, which is looking to relocate the Peasholme Centre.

In a letter to the council, who last week asked residents to send in any ideas for suitable sites, Mr Laverack said a purpose-built hostel could fit in the space at 14 Jewbury, with other accommodation built over the roadway leading into the car park. Currently, the Monk Bar Garage and 4 Fishergate have been identified as the only suitable sites for Peasholme.

The centre must move to make way for the massive Hungate development, which includes £30 million-worth of council offices.

At a meeting of the council's ruling executive yesterday, head of housing Steve Waddington said there was a possibility the building could be used, although he said the authority did not own the site.

"It is not impossible," he said. "It is a possibility that we could have a third site, if members wish. We could discuss the possibility with the owners."

Coun Galloway said: "I am open-minded and will not close the door on Jewbury entirely. Bearing in mind we don't own the building, it is dangerous to assume there would be willing sellers.

"I am proposing to accept the officers' recommendations (that Monk Bar garage and 4 Fishergate be agreed as shortlisted sites and taken forward for consultation with local residents), but ask them to further investigate the Jewbury option.

"We will give officers delegated powers, should there be a chance it is a practical alternative, to include it."

Mr Laverack, who is based in Lord Mayor's Walk close to both the Monk Bar Garage and Jewbury sites, said he was pleased his suggestion was being taken seriously.

"I did have fears this was all just a paper exercise," he said. "I will wait and see where I go from here. I hope that something can happen."