York Liberal Democrats have welcomed the news that the decision to approve a new Community Stadium at Monks Cross will not be called-in by central government.

The 6,000-seat stadium for York City FC and York City Knights, as well as new John Lewis and Marks & Spencer stores, will now be built after Communities and Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles ruled that City of York Council’s decision to approve the scheme should stand. The stadium is expected to be ready for the 2014/15 football and rugby league seasons.

Carol Runciman, Liberal Democrat Group Leader on City of York Council, commented:

“The Liberal Democrat Group is very pleased that the scheme has not been called in and the decision of local representatives will stand. The development will significantly contribute to the economic development of York. It will bring much-needed jobs to the City and offer local residents and sport clubs improved facilities and choice We now need to move forward with the application and ensure that developers work closely with local residents to make certain that the new development works for everyone and concerns such as traffic are properly resolved.”

Residents in the Westfield and Dringhouses wards have given their views on recent cuts in public service standards.

They gave their views in response to a “Focus” survey.

The top 10 least popular cuts (least popular first) are:

1. Stopping, or charging for, green waste wheelie bins emptying – 97% opposed

2. Reduction in highways maintenance budget 94%

3. Reductions in drainage gulley cleansing frequencies 93%

4. Reduction in snow and ice clearing budget 84%

5. Recent increase in Council Tax level 82%

6. Reduction in Ward Committee budget 81%

6. Closure of Beckfield Lane recycling centre 81%

8. Stopping Community Ranger security patrols 78%

9. Increased car parking charges 71%

10. Closure of Council’s Acomb Office – 54%