TRADERS in a neglected part of York have given the thumbs-up to ideas for the area's second major redevelopment.

Earlier this month, the Evening Press reported how residents were asked for their views on a new use for the former Imperial Hotel site, off Crichton Avenue, at Clifton, York.

The site has stood empty since the hotel was demolished in the early 1990s, and it quickly became a magnet for nuisance youths. But redevelopment will see either flats, houses, or a combination of the two, built.

Now, the parade of shops opposite the site look set for a £30,000 facelift.

Shop owners have regularly complained that the run down state of the shops and the derelict land opposite have put off customers.

Three shops have windows boarded up, and the front of one is covered in graffiti.

But, if Single Regeneration Budget cash can be secured, the area could thrive again.

In a scheme led by the North Clifton Regeneration Project, the pavement in front of the shops will re-set to fill in the potholes.

Bollards will also be built to stop vehicles parking on the pavement and causing more holes.

Clifton crime prevention officer PC Jim Shanks is to inspect the shops with security improvements in mind.

Cash is available to pay for a CCTV camera in the middle of the roundabout next to the shops.

Sandwich shop proprietor Cath Ward - who has lived in Clifton for more than 40 years - said: "I hope we do see this happen and not just hear it talked about. It will encourage people to come round here again.

"This place used to be really busy, but no one comes here any more. It doesn't look good when so many windows are boarded up."

And staff in Forbuoys, who asked not to be named, said: "It's a brilliant idea. Anything that helps make this place look better has got to be good."

Regeneration project manager Tanya Lyons said though the redevelopment was at an early stage, she "doesn't expect any problems securing the money."

"We just have to firm the project up then we can put it forward to the Single Regeneration Budget for funding.

"Local shops are important, especially in an area like Clifton.

"Residents say the shops used to be really popular and people would stop there for a chat.

"We would like to see that happening again."

Updated: 12:28 Friday, September 21, 2001