AMBITIOUS plans to launch York as a "City of Festivals" in only 12 months time have been adopted by an influential body.

York@Large (Leisure Arts Recreation Galleries and Events) wants to establish the city as a place which attracts regular international attention.

Launching in mid-2005, York's new cultural partnership aims to host dozens of events, attracting both visitors and residents to take part in city life.

It will also provide a vital support network to encourage creative expression and aspiration from people who have excellent ideas on how to develop York culturally. York@Large passed its first major test last night when its proposals were enthusiastically adopted by the board of Without Walls - the body charged with developing the city in which we will live in two decades time.

Liz Page, chair of York@Large, told board members the project would mean that "all year round something would be happening".

She said: "We want to develop York as one of Europe's leading leisure and business tourist destinations. We want to attract attention on an international stage."

The City of Festivals plan would see a central office opened, providing a starting point for people with creative ideas to contact.

It would promote projects and could also provide a one-stop booking office for city people wanting to participate.

Mrs Page said challenges the group faced included the availability of high-profile venues in York, and licensing costs which were among the highest in the country.

The proposals were adopted unanimously by the meeting, which was chaired by City of York Council leader Steve Galloway.

One board member said the initiative was the most "exciting and spectacular" project that Without Walls could back.

Mrs Page said: "With the City of Festivals, we can create a city where creative ideas and fun combine to help enhance the quality of life for everyone.

"It's for the people of York to enjoy their quality of life as much as for people who come to visit us."

Updated: 10:37 Wednesday, April 07, 2004