More Minstrels discord

Plans for the four-storey block of flats on the site of the former Minstrels caf, in Little Minster Street, have been on display in the city centre for the past two weekends.

Campaigners manning the stand, in The Square, spoke to passers-by about the plans and collected 515 signatures from people opposing the scheme.

Just over 400 of these were residents and the rest were visitors to the city, say the campaigners.

Michael Le Brocq, of St Thomas Street, said: "We were very careful to ask people for their views, rather than try and put words in their mouth. Many people who stopped at the stand were amazed when they saw the architect's plans and simply could not believe the city council would contemplate allowing the development in its current form."

Only three people signed in favour of the modern design.

Proposals for the flats, which would have a copper roof and metal-framed balconies, first came before the city council in June.

Planners gave the go-ahead despite vigorous objection, but in July the scheme was back before the committee because of a procedural error. The item was deferred and a final decision is expected later this month. Protesters are now hoping the support they have generated will prompt a change of heart.

"Less than 1% of people who expressed an opinion were supportive of the plans as they stand," said Mr Le Brocq. "The most common suggestion for improving the plans was to reduce the height by at least one and a half floors, so the building would not be seen from Cathedral Close. Most feel the site needs development, but the current plan is just too tall.

"We can only hope the planning committee, the architect and Sunley Homes, listen to the views of the people and revise the plans for Minstrels."

He added that the stand was manned for four hours each Saturday afternoon, and the number of signatures represented one every minute.

Architects, Huw Thomas Associates, say they will not revise the plans.