A SENIOR York architect says he is "startled and disgusted" with a new block of flats which is taking shape on the city's skyline.

Esteemed designer Tom Adams is leading the criticism of The Walmgate Venture, a new block which will offer "energy-efficient" apartments at prices starting from £100,000.

The block is being built behind the former Mawson's Pet Store by Pocklington-based Helmsley Securities, which claims the block's cedar wood, steel and aluminium materials make it "a shining example of architecture of the future".

But although the scheme has been defended by developers, and by City of York Council, Mr Adams has criticised the materials and scale of the project.

"I am startled by the size of this - and disgusted," he said.

"It is so totally dominant that it seems to be out of keeping what I call the magic fabric of York, the enchanting roofscape that is so special to the city.

"This is a very special site - Nevil Shute designed the R101 airship just behind it - and it seems to be being belittled by this thing."

Mr Adams pointed out that the council's planning officers recommended that the block be refused because of its size. Their decision was overturned at the committee stage by council members.

Also unhappy with the project was York developer Stuart Potter, who said: "The council says that it wants buildings which are in keeping with the general look of the city centre, and we have always been happy to go along with that when we are building.

"But these people have come along and done their own thing, and the council said that was OK."

But John Reeves, managing director of Helmsley Securities, rejected the criticism.

He said: "Demand for contemporary properties such as Mawson's Court speaks for itself, with six of the eight apartments being sold even before they have been advertised.

"The unusual design serves, in my opinion, to complement the beauty of the surrounding, more traditional, architecture.

"The planning committee obviously has faith in the new development, and was particularly complimentary about the way in which we have utilised energy-efficient materials.

"It is not surprising that such an innovative development has prompted some criticism from traditionalists, but we would urge those critics to come forward and allow us to show them around the property in more detail.

"We respect the historic aspects of York, however firmly believe that exclusive schemes in the style of Mawson's Court also have their place in this city."

A spokesman for City of York Council said: "Councillors are elected to make planning decisions and sometimes - although infrequently - their judgements do differ from those of planning officers.

"This is never an easy process, and councillors run the risk of being criticised whatever they decide.

"On this occasion, members of the planning committee felt concern over the impact of the development on Walmgate was unwarranted.

"We feel the materials being used, while not traditional, are sympathetic to the area.

"This scheme might also be seen in the context of the planned re-development of

other parts of Piccadilly."

Updated: 11:31 Wednesday, August 22, 2001