A PETITION signed by 800 residents is to be presented to the House of Commons to demand a public inquiry over the proposals for "New Osbaldwick".

Ryedale MP John Greenway will hand in the signatures, following extensive protests against the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust's plans for a new 540-home village on York's outskirts.

Residents living in roads which will serve as access routes into the development, such as Fifth Avenue and Meadlands, as well as in Osbaldwick, have been particularly upset about increased traffic. The possibility of flooding and deterioration of air quality are also issues of concern.

They say they have not been properly consulted over the issue or had their questions replied to.

Mr Greenway, who collected the signatures from residents at the village hall on Saturday, said the proposals should be called in and determined by the Secretary of State.

"I suggested several weeks ago that the application should be subject to a public inquiry," he told the Evening Press.

"I believe it's appropriate because there is such a strong disagreement between the local community, the proposed developer and the council about the issue.

"Given that the council own 97 per cent of the site I think that a public inquiry would be the only way to get these difficulties resolved and for the people to feel they have had a fair hearing. Public confidence in the decision is crucial."

Mr Greenway, who represents part of the area affected, said residents were not opposed to the principle of building on the site but felt the access proposals were "unacceptable".

"I agree with them," he added.

Malcolm Kettlestring, chairman of Osbaldwick Parish Council, said that out of 185 homes he personally petitioned, only three people would not sign.

"This shows the depth of feeling there is over the issue," he said.

"We're very concerned about the possible traffic impact of the development and flooding. We're not being listened to."

The trust has said that a consultation panel made up of representatives from the local community, including Osbaldwick Parish Council and Meadlands Area Residents Association, has met regularly over the past four years and made a positive contribution to the development plans.

Updated: 10:48 Monday, December 08, 2003