A £60M shopping development would not be damaging to an historic conservation area, English Heritage chiefs said yesterday.

The proposed Coppergate Riverside scheme would not challenge the dominance of Clifford's Tower, in York, historic buildings inspector Trevor Mitchell told a public inquiry.

He was speaking on the seventh day of an inquiry into Land Securities' controversial proposals to redevelop land between the tower and Piccadilly with shops, restaurants and apartments.

Objectors claim the development would have a severe impact on the setting and appearance of the tower and conservation area.

But Mr Mitchell, whose organisation has responsibility for the castle, said the scheme would enhance the area.

He added that English Heritage was also happy with the proposed redevelopment of Piccadilly, saying it would remove the "non-conforming" Ryedale Building and would not harm the appearance of the conservation area.

The inquiry continues