PLANS for new flats have been blocked by a city's councillors who attacked the design as "cheap and nasty".

Planning councillors on York City Council delayed a decision on proposals by builder Barratt for Shelley House, in York - despite agreeing an original application for 59 flats on the Acomb Road site.

The number of homes proposed for the site was increased to 67 - but it was not this that worried councillors.

"To me it is just a cheaper looking design," said Councillor Tracey Simpson-Laing. "The original plan had features that joined in with the area; it had character and, in 20 years, it would blend in nicely with the area. But this design is just flat, soulless. It looks like a boring hotel - there is just nothing to it."

Coun Steve Galloway was more conciliatory: "I think we are making heavy weather of it all. I would be happy for the officers to dispose of it."

However, Barratt land executive Mark Newby said the company had worked with the council on the design.

"We would not wish to change the plans again as we have already had extensive discussions, and are happy with what we have come up with," he said.

Nevertheless, the committee has voted to defer a decision while asking Barratt to come up with more attractive designs.