MORE than 4,000 jobs and £185 million - that's how much boffins are predicting York's economy will benefit if the university is allowed to expand.

Calculations by economists at the University of York predict enormous gains for the city, many of which would be lost if the Heslington East development is delayed or blocked.

Protesters opposing the 65-hectare expansion argue any work should be delayed until a plan has been adopted by local councils.

But defending the development at the latest hearing of a four-week public inquiry, the university's pro-vice-chancellor for external relations, Dr Chris Henshall, warned any delay would be "devastating".

He said the university was in talks with the Bio-Refinery Technologies Institute and the Institute For Futures Medicine about a move to York - but was held back because of a lack of room.

He said: "We will struggle to locate anywhere in our current campus. We might even have to put portable buildings on to car parks.

"Bio-Refinery, for example, could be a very exciting possibility for York and the country.

"We are living through the early stages of a complete revolution in worldwide manufacturing. York has some of the best experts in the world in this area.

"However, one of the key issues we will be facing is where to put it."

Frances Patterson, representing the university, asked Dr Henshall: "Certain of the objectors are arguing that this (development) is premature. What would be the implication of delay?"

Dr Henshall replied: "A delay of more than a small number of years would be devastating to our academic potential."

University chiefs estimate the Heslington East development would create 4,500 jobs - 2,000 for academics and another 2,500 through hi-tech "spin-off" companies, research groups and other commercial organisations.

They say York's economy would benefit to the tune of £185 million, on top of the university's current contribution of £164 million.

But campaigners have slammed the scheme. They say the university has not proven sufficient need for the development, or that there are no other sites available.

Giles Cannock, a lawyer representing Heslington Parish Council and Heslington Village Trust, said: "The parish council considers the harm to the university through any delay is more than outweighed by the prejudice suffered to local residents."

The public inquiry, held daily at York Guildhall in York, is expected to last well into May.

Updated: 08:46 Monday, May 01, 2006