CAMPAIGNERS today reacted with fury after the Government snubbed a bid to protect an historic York home threatened with demolition.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has rejected York Conservation Trust's attempt to have Burton Croft listed.

Developers want to knock down the former home of conservationist and York University founder John Bowes Morrell for modern flats.

Opponents fighting to save Burton Croft hoped Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell would list it for historical reasons - making it harder for bulldozers to move in.

But heritage chiefs say Dr Morrell is not famous enough - and campaigners are now relying on city councillors to torpedo the scheme.

Conservation Trust chief executive Philip Thake said: "I'm absolutely disgusted with the decision. The arguments supporting it are not founded."

English Heritage said Dr Morrell's local importance was never in doubt. But the former Lord Mayor failed to make strict selection rules due to "lack of national fame".

A DCMS spokesman confirmed the request had been turned down.

A heritage report states: "People involved must be of real national fame and interest. I have to say that I don't think we could even begin to make a serious case for JB Morrell as a figure of national importance."

It adds: "Morrell's contribution to York's preservation could...be seen to have national significance.

"But there can be no getting away from the fact Morrell is not a nationally-known name, even in the present world of conservation."

But Mr Thake said Dr Morrell was modest and turned down two knighthoods. He also chaired the Westminster Press Group - which later became Newsquest, owners of the Evening Press - ensuring the survival of countless local newspapers.

Mr Thake said Dr Morrell's contribution to York, which boosted the city's popularity worldwide, should have been given more weight. He co-founded the trust, helping protect more than 60 historic properties across the city from demolition.

He said: "If this was a house in London, not York, I bet it wouldn't get knocked down."

Barratt York wants to build a 22-flat development at Burton Croft, Burton Stone Lane, and council officers have recommended revised plans for approval.

A public inquiry is scheduled after Barratt's first blueprint was refused by councillors.

Mr Thake admitted he now "feared the worst" for Burton Croft.

But he refused to give up the fight and said hundreds of people backed the campaign. Supporters included MP Hugh Bayley, City of York Council leader Steve Galloway and the Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, he said.

A spokesman for Barratt York said the company had no further comment on the issue.

Burton Croft will be discussed by councillors on Thursday.

Updated: 08:41 Tuesday, July 06, 2004