Den res as city developers woo otters

An ecological blueprint has been drawn up for the next century as part of the Hungate project to create 720 new homes and the biggest square in York.

The eco-plan includes an otter holt which has been built on the River Foss, as well as establishing habitats to encourage other wildlife such as kingfishers.

Ian Shepherd, the project director of Hungate (York) Regeneration Ltd, which is developing the neighbourhood within the city walls, said: "This is without doubt the most unusual property that has been built on site.

"It comes as part of a package of environmental improvements to the river, nature reserve and banks, including planting of alder, birch and black poplars, an endangered native tree."

The first phase of the Hungate development has been completed and residents moved into their homes last year.

Householders will be able to watch their new water-dwelling neighbours after they settle in, as a viewing platform is being created at Foss Islands Nature Reserve at a safe distance away from the holt.