HOME owners in York have been reassured they will not be affected by flooding, despite the River Ouse continuing to rise.

Flood experts at the City of York Council said the river was expected to rise by 200mm, but this would not cause problems for homeowners.

Bill Woolley, assistant director of environment and development at the council, said: "We are expecting water levels to remain static at around 4.2m higher than normal summer levels.

"Although this will cause some problems for a small number of properties, such as the King's Arms on King's Staith, it should not flood any residential homes.

"We are, however, taking precautions, and are sandbagging the end of Peckitt Street adjacent to Friar's Terrace, and across River Street at Clementhorpe, to protect properties which may be liable to flooding if the water level reaches 4.3m.

"We are working closely with the Environment Agency to anticipate what water levels are likely to do and, at present, we are told that they will not exceed 4.2m.

"If the Environment Agency change their prediction and water levels of above 4.2m are expected, we will convene the York Flood Control Group, which will involve a co-ordinated response from the council and emergency services."

Updated: 10:48 Friday, February 06, 2004