AN open area which could be created in the core of historic York has been described as the city's own "Hyde Park".

That was the reaction to news that a civic open space by Clifford's Tower featured in the blueprint for the city's Castle area.

A new planning brief, says the "open carpet", free from buildings, would be ideal for cultural events such as festivals and concerts.

David Dee, of Dave Dee's Removals in Piccadilly and of the Castle Campaign Group, enthused: "The open space would be fantastic. We need to be able to draw in shows. It would open up new doors. But we could also have it as a green open space for people to come and sit in, like Hyde Park." The new vision also features plans to drive car parking around the tower underground, halving the spaces available to 145; create a "retail circuit" between Coppergate and Piccadilly which would become a primarily "pedestrian environment"; and enhance views of the tower.

Gillian Cruddas, of York Tourism Bureau, said: "The principles of the planning brief suggest the balance between shopping, leisure and space to relax and enjoy York's unique atmosphere has been achieved.

"It creates an opportunity for us to do things we can't at the moment. Another city centre area would be very good for the city's festivals and events programme. It is definitely a step in the right direction."

But retired Mary Parker, 74, of Knaresborough, said underground parking was "ridiculous" if it meant halving the number of spaces. "There are not enough car park spaces already."

But she felt the bid to boost retail around Piccadilly "definitely would attract more tourists to the York area".

York Civic Trust chairman Darrell Buttery felt the vision tried to address earlier concerns that "too much was being squashed on to the Clifford's Tower site".

"This report refers to the need for 'quality civic and open space' and to views. It shows a shift in thinking. That's welcome."

Len Cruddas, of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "There's a danger of overdevelopment. The fact we can incorporate some open space is sensible. If we can get the city centre to be a vibrant and exciting place, we need good development and retail opportunities that will excite people."

City of York Council leader Steve Galloway described the vision as "a fresh approach", offering an opportunity to revitalise the area and "extend the prosperity of Parliament Street down into Piccadilly".

Views wanted on new plan

GROUPS and residents interested in the future of the Castle Piccadilly area are being urged to speak out during the consultation.

City of York Council has published the new planning and design principles for the area, which Councillor Ann Reid, executive member for planning and transport, described as "the next step towards finally resolving the problems associated with this important area of the city".

She said: "After the Government inspector's decision, the council promised more involvement with stakeholders and residents, and this brief brings together the work that has been carried out over the last 18 months.

"It is important to the city that we improve the setting of Clifford's Tower and the surrounding Castle area, while at the same time increasing the retail opportunities in the city. York needs to be attractive to all types of visitors."

The draft brief will be available for comment from interested parties during September and October.

Updated: 10:12 Tuesday, July 26, 2005