Residents have given their views on what the community space in the city's new Hungate development should be used for.

As part of the planning agreement for the mixed use site, developers have agreed to allocate a 8,000 sq ft space for community use. The space may be split over two floors, must be multi functional and must serve all the community.

Suggestions from members of the public include using the area for a quiet space for spiritual or religious use, swimming facilities, versatile workshops or studios, internet and media facilities, a cultural arts centre and fitness or sports facilities.

City of York Council will liaise with interested groups to assess the viability of the suggestions.

Derek Gauld, from the council's City Development team, said: "It was fantastic to see how many different ideas were suggested. It's always going to be difficult to please everyone, but we hope that we can come up with a final option that will provide a valuable community facility for years to come." 

The Hungate development will also include offices, housing, shops and a new bridge over the River Foss. Work on the new community facility is expected to start in 2009.

The full results of the consultation report are available at www.york.gov/planning or at the council reception at 9 St Leonard's Place. Anyone wanting further information should call 01904 551694 or 551463.