THE first step towards making the vital York Central redevelopment a reality has been taken by planning chiefs.

Members of City of York Council's planning committee last night unanimously approved the planning brief for the "Teardrop" site, which has taken months to compile following widespread consultation.

This significant first step can now enable the creation of a masterplan for the multi-million pound housing and business development, behind York Station.

Council leader Dave Merrett told the meeting: "York Central is potentially an extremely important development for the city which gives us a real opportunity.

"It's absolutely essential we get it right."

Coun Ann Reid said: "We need to approve this now because it shows intent and our desire to get it moving."

Hundreds of groups and individuals across York have had the chance to comment on the planning brief relating to issues including, affordable housing, height of buildings, leisure facilities and open space. Views have been documented and will be taken on board in the future planning process.

Sue Smales, principal development officer, said: "This planning brief is an important first step, but is not the end of the story relating to decisions on the site."

But Philip Crowe, who is one of the main opponents of the Coppergate II scheme, urged councillors not to rush approving the York Central brief. He said this would avoid problems and delays in the future.

He told the meeting: "This site is absolutely crucial to the future of York. I'm asking for time to think about the implications properly."

The committee chairman, Coun Martin Brumby, said: "A lot of us have been living with this for a considerable time. "Members have gone to great lengths to listen to different opinions and come up with an acceptable scheme."

The site can provide a maximum of 3,000 homes and may include six-storey buildings.

The planning brief will now be adopted as supplementary planning guidance once the local plan has been adopted.

Updated: 11:35 Friday, April 25, 2003