Fulford Road in York could be the loser in the proposed Coppergate II development, a public meeting heard.

The session, the latest in a series of consultation talks between developers Land Securities and the public, took place at Fulford Cross School last night, and focused on traffic issues.

Many of those against the retail development near Clifford's Tower were not satisfied with the answers they received. A central worry of residents is that Fulford Road would get even more congested if new stores started to attract cars to that end of the city.

And Richard Whiting, a member of the York Natural Environment Trust, raised his concerns about the open space behind Clifford's Tower being eaten up by new buildings, and about his fears for the River Foss.

He said: "The question of traffic was raised, but we didn't seem to get any firm answers to allay our fears.

"The general public at the meeting were concerned that a large store in Piccadilly would draw lots of extra traffic.

"My impression was that Land Securities haven't looked into this possibility in any detail. But this side of York cannot bear any more traffic.

"As a member of the York Natural Environment Trust I was concerned about the eradication of open space by this development.

"They say they might develop the car park space behind Clifford's Tower for retail use, but that's completely unacceptable."

Tim Flanagan, a spokesman for Land Securities, said: "At this latest public forum we were attempting to keep local residents updated with development plans.

"I know that traffic concerns are high on the agenda of local residents and their concerns will be taken on board."