PLANS to sell off a car and coach park in the centre of York have been criticised by opposition politicians.

City of York Council leader James Alexander has revealed proposals to sell the Union Terrace site to York St John University so it can expand its campus and has said the money received would pay for improvements to nearby streets such as Gillygate, as well as creating more than 100 jobs.

But the authority’s Liberal Democrat group said this would not compensate local businesses for the loss of trade they fear they will suffer if the deal goes through.

Coun Ann Reid, the Lib Dems’ deputy leader, said: “Coun Alexander’s comments will not reassure the businesses who will lose out if the car and coach park is closed and people no longer walk down Gillygate on their way into the city centre.

“New street lights and paving may improve the look of the street, but many of the businesses rely on passing trade and people aren’t going to go out of their way to marvel at the lights.

“Union Terrace is a well-used car park and brings in about £400,000 a year to the council. Unless suitable replacement parking is provided, the council could be losing out on valuable income as residents decide it is easier to park at out-of-town shopping centres. That would be a big blow for council finances and city centre businesses.”

Coun Reid said she was also worried about the loss of disabled parking at Union Terrace. She said: “It’s hard to believe Labour have been able to consider all the issues raised by the possible sale in the short period since they took control of the council.”