Revised plans for the 拢100m redevelopment of the Hungate site near central York are to be submitted to the council this month.
Architect John Thompson & Partners鈥� masterplan includes 680 homes and buildings, ranging from three to seven storeys.

Architectural watchdog Cabe criticised the scheme in September because it was not dense enough. In contrast, conservation body English Heritage said the scheme was too dense and too tall and was out of kilter with the city鈥檚 historic feel.

In the revised plan, the architect, which is working for a consortium led by Crosby Homes, has increased the number of homes to more than 700. This is thought to be fewer than Cabe wanted, but not enough to offend English Heritage.

The height of the buildings has not been changed, even though it was suggested by York planning guidance that buildings should not be above five storeys. The guidance was written in 1998, before the introduction of PPG3, which encouraged higher densities.

A source close to the scheme said: 鈥淓H is more in line than Cabe with what is set out in the planning guidance.鈥�

EH is more in line than CABE with what is set out in the planning guidance

Source close to Hungate scheme

David Harrison, director at John Thompson, said: 鈥淲e are responding to some comments made by Cabe to create a greater density of development.鈥�

The scheme will include the development of a nature reserve, which Crosby hopes might make up part of the planning gain agreement with the council. Hungate will also include an archeological excavation site to attract tourists as well as retail and office space.

n Regional development agency Yorkshire Forward intends to appoint a panel of 15-20 experts, including architects and urban designers, to help regenerate up to 40 rural market towns over the next 10 years. The decision follows the appointment of an urban panel to regenerate Yorkshire鈥檚 towns and cities. Architects involved include Will Alsop and John Thompson.