by Richard Edwards

FURIOUS residents have vowed to "fight all the way" against plans to build a £30m industrial development on York's green belt.

As reported in Friday's Evening Press, P&O Developments plans to build a 30-acre technology park close to Grimston Bar, opposite the Hull Road Park & Ride site.

P & O claims 1,750 manufacturing jobs would be brought to York if the park was built.

But residents of a row of Hull Road homes near to the proposed site say the development would make their lives "unbearable".

They fear increased traffic congestion and noise pollution, and say rare species of wildlife would be affected by the plans.

One resident, Ann Hart, said: "The first I heard about the plans was when I read about them in the Evening Press.

"They are a real concern, and while there are issues personal to the people living here there are also issues that are of major concern to York as a whole.

"After all, this is green belt land and once the green belt is gone, it is gone.

"They keep talking about bringing extra people into York, but it all seems to be to the detriment of the landscape.

"We have got to preserve what is still there for the future, before it is too late."

Mrs Hart also said there could be a possible impact on York's tourism industry, as the proposed site is on a main route into the city.

"If the view is going to be spoiled then it will impact on tourism," she said.

Neighbour Alma Husband said she fears a big drop in the value of her home if the park is built.

She told the Evening Press: "I have lived here 24 years and planned to sell up when I retire and buy a house in the centre.

"All I have is my home. But I am really worried about the effect this park might have on it."

The residents say they plan to form themselves into an official action group.

Christopher Hart, Ann's husband, plans to attend a City of York Council green belt meeting on Tuesday to seek more information.

"We are ready to fight all the way for as long as is necessary," Mrs Hart said.

A P&O spokesman said: "The scheme is in its very early stages and nothing has been committed to yet. P&O always take into account the views and concerns of any interested parties, and we always engage with those parties.

"We are aware of the issues attached to this project and will act accordingly."

Updated: 11:30 Monday, February 25, 2002