A VISION for the future of York over the next 20 years is set to be given the stamp of approval by city councillors next week.

Members of City of York Council's executive will be asked to endorse the Without Walls Vision document, which outlines plans for the city over the next two decades.

In a report to members, Denise Simms, senior partnership support officer, said: "Development of the vision and community strategy is a momentous occasion for York.

"The process has been long and brings together contributions from thousands of people and many organisations."

The 33-page vision, called York - A City Making History, has been created by the Without Walls partnership, and outlines a grand plan for York from now until 2023.

It says the plan is needed so the city can take control of its future and be ready for changes, such as a rise in population.

It includes sections on the current state of York, key issues faced in its development, and how these plans link with those already in place.

It also includes seven sections which deal with the improvements that could be made to York's business world, its education, social welfare and health systems, and to community safety.

A final section outlines how these goals can be achieved, with the emphasis on a community strategy to put all the aims into action.

The document states: "Through this community strategy we want to improve the quality of life for everyone in York.

"We want to build strong, proud communities, which everyone benefits from and contributes to. If we can do this York will be a better place for everyone."

The first draft of the documents was unveiled last September, following an extensive consultation process.

As part of the consultation, a festival of ideas was held to get views from organisation and thousands of York residents.

Executive members will meet at the Guildhall on Tuesday, April 20, at 2pm, to discuss the issue.

Updated: 10:52 Tuesday, April 13, 2004