The first witnesses at the inquiry into Land Securities’ controversial Coppergate Riverside scheme in York have said the development is essential for the city’s economy.
The inquiry will decide whether LandSec’s £60m retail development located next to York’s famous landmark, Clifford’s Tower, should go ahead.
John Steel, City of York council’s QC, said on the opening day of the inquiry that the 330,000 sq ft (30,657 sq m) shopping centre would provide essential space for a much-needed department store in the city centre. “It is essential for the vitality and viability of York city centre – doing nothing is not an option.”
Speaking as a witness for LandSec, Drivers Jonas retail planning consultant James Williams said that the proposed 106,000 sq ft department store in Piccadilly was the only scheme that would draw extra shoppers to the city centre and stop it losing customers to Leeds and out-of-town centres.
EGi News 17/01/02
