People in York are being invited to voice their concerns over the expansion of the University at a series of focus groups.

The University of York has applied to reserve 70 hectares of greenbelt land to the east of Heslington for future building.

The University claims its most popular departments need more space to meet demand once their existing Heslington campus reaches capacity.

The City of York Council has backed the proposals, but will not grant planning permission until a public consultation has been carried out.

Second campus

Focus groups, community meetings and a new website will be used as forums for local residents to have their say.

The university estimates its student population will reach 12,000 within the next twenty years.

The Government's target of getting 50% of young adults into further education is likely to put more pressure on resources.

The council hopes the new site will ease pressure on inner-city housing demands of local residents.

The University will be expected to provide accommodation for any increase in student numbers that arises from the plans.