A MAJOR scheme to increase business space at Monks Cross which could create hundreds of jobs has been put on hold.

Members of City of York Council's planning committee deferred plans to create the 32-acre "quality employment development" north of Monks Cross Drive at least until autumn, because it was "too premature".

Councillors argued that the public should first be consulted on the third set of changes to the Local Development Plan.

The scheme is widely opposed, particularly by Huntington Parish Council, who argue that it is another example of over-development in the area.

Coun Steve Galloway told the meeting: "Every man and woman deserves their day in court.

"If we approve this scheme now it would be an outrage to the basic principles of fairness."

Coun Dave Merrett said the application was "too rushed".

"I recognise that there is a shortage of quality employment in the city and this needs addressing," he said.

"But I'm quite concerned about some of the highways matters."

Roy Jones, a member of Huntington Parish Council, told the meeting that neither they or the residents were properly consulted over the scheme.

"We remain totally opposed to the planning application before you today," he said.

"To allow development of 26 acres of this land is in breach of its (the council's) own policies and agreements. In addition, no credible justification or need has been proven."

Mr Jones said 2,094 residents had objected to the proposals.

Meanwhile, the scheme's proposed developers have now agreed to safeguard a former rail route through the site - pending the production of a feasibility study into its possible reopening.

Members of the Minsters' Rail Campaign had asked planners to look at reinstating the line as part of a route to run from York to Beverley.

Coun Brian Watson told the meeting that the proposed rail link could provide "ideal" access to York City Knights' home ground at Huntington Stadium for rugby league fans.

Updated: 10:47 Friday, June 27, 2003