York park and retail plan approved by government

The community stadium will be used by the city's professional football and rugby league teams

A sports stadium and retail development on the outskirts of York has been given the go-ahead by the government.

The scheme at Monks Cross which was approved by City of York councillors last month and has now received the backing of the Secretary of State.

The site will include John Lewis and Marks and Spencer stores together with a new ground for York City FC.

The developers, Oakgate (Monks Cross) Ltd, have said the plans could create up to 1,000 jobs.

Councillor Sonja Crisp said: "This decision allows us to deliver on a long held council priority and is key to us achieving our economic and health ambitions for York.

"It will bring new jobs, an economic boost to the city, a sustainable home for our professional sports clubs and community health as well as sporting facilities to be proud of."