AN ambitious £50 million transformation of York land into a huge business park looks likely to get the green light next week.

Vanguard, the York Business Quarter, aims to create 450,000 square feet of offices and 3,000 to 4,000 jobs on a 26-acre site to the south of the Monks Cross retail park.

Plans go before City of York Councillors on Thursday.

Council officers have recommended that they accept them.

The news is being celebrated as a great step forward by developers.

York businessman Richard Wood, the leader of the development team, said: "We firmly believe that our development is in the best interests of the city of York.

"The growth of York as a hi-tech, business-orientated city over the past five years has been absolutely crucial for its economic health. York is tackling the complex challenges of the 21st century with vision and conviction.

"I am delighted that Vanguard has already received a good deal of support from York's business community. All believe, as we do, that our business park would create sustainable jobs, give York's economy a huge boost and transform an under-used area of Monks Cross into a thriving and forward-looking community.

"That must be good news for the city."

The site contains an area earmarked by City of York Council for a new park-and-ride location.

Nobody at the council would confirm the recommendation today, but it is understood officers have backed it because of the city's need for high-quality employment land.

Updated: 10:37 Friday, January 25, 2002