POPULAR department store John Lewis could be coming to York by 2012.

The national chain is looking to open ten new shops as part of a growth spurt between 2008 and 2012 - and York is one of the preferred locations for a new store.

John Lewis managing director Luke Mayhew told a conference in Birmingham about the company's plans.

He said: "The company is particularly interested in sites within the Leeds/York/Harrogate triangle as well as the Midlands, south of the M25, the Thames Valley and further west."

The new stores, which will include both fashion and products for the home, are expected to cost John Lewis up to £300 million.

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of the York Tourism Bureau, welcomed the company's interest in York.

"We would be absolutely delighted if John Lewis were to come to York. Shopping is one of the main reasons that tourists visit York," she said.

Updated: 10:44 Thursday, December 04, 2003