A temporary location for Oxford's night shelter for homeless people could harm plans to remove coaches from St Giles, a councillor has claimed.

Members of the city council's executive board agreed on Monday (July 8) that Albion Place car park, in St Ebbe's, was the best location for a temporary night shelter, while Luther Street Night Shelter undergoes a £4m revamp.

The temporary shelter, a purpose-built portable home, would open in November and operate until December 2003, at a cost of £150,000.

The plan to use Albion Place has alarmed conservationists who were hoping the car park could provide an alternative dropping-off point for tourist coaches.

Liberal Democrat councillor Jean Fooks said: "It is a crazy decision to put the night shelter in the car park when there is a very real possibility of putting coaches there.

"If this plan goes ahead, it will mean coaches in St Giles for at least another year."

Residents in the area have also expressed their concern.

John Trafford, 77, who lives in sheltered accommodation for the elderly at Brooks Taylor Court, next to the car park, said: "There is already noise and disturbance at night. If this goes ahead it will get worse."

The night shelter provides emergency accommodation for 50 people.

Val Smith, executive member for housing, said residents would be properly consulted about the proposal to use the car park for temporary housing for the homeless.

Officers have been asked to apply for temporary planning consent at the car park, and to provide a detailed report on the costs of the temporary home.