PROTESTORS have vowed to continue fighting plans to build 700 homes on the edge of a city.

An application to develop a large housing estate on the southern outskirts of York has been approved by councillors.

The decision was taken despite widespread concern the extra homes on the Germany Beck site, near Fulford, would increase problems of traffic gridlock.

Peter Evely, traffic manager for City of York Council, said the A19 corridor through Fulford was already the busiest commuter link into the city and was working at full capacity.

He said that if the development went ahead, a worst-case scenario could see morning rush-hour journeys take 30 minutes longer.

However, Mr Evely said congestion was not a valid reason for refusing the application.

Councillors rejected calls from the Fulford Battlefield Society for further digs on the land.

The authority's archaeologist said no firm evidence has been found to support the society's claims that the Battle of Fulford was fought on the development site in 1066.

After the meeting, Fulford Parish Council chairman Stephen Kenwright said protestors would fight for a public inquiry.