A BUSINESSMAN has announced £3m proposals to transform a derelict warehouse into a boutique shopping centre.

Marti Dix wants to convert the Bonding Warehouse, in York, into a major shopping and lifestyle destination to rival the likes of Leeds' Corn Exchange.

The scheme would see the creation of dozens of affordable units in the former warehouse, which stands on the banks of the Rover Ouse.

Mr Dix said: "The City of York has shown it can attract major high street stores, but there's a real lack of provision for smaller scale retailers.

"It is hoped that this development plans to plug that gap and create something that's fresh, ambitious and currently not widely catered for in York."

Mr Dix, who has been working as a fashion designer for the past six years, is in preliminary discussions with architects and surveyors.

His is the second plan to be unveiled for the Bonding Warehouse in recent weeks.

Earlier this month, entrepreneur David Hattersley said he wants to transform the dilapidated building into York's first five-star hotel.