LETTERS in the Citizen from Councillors Heath and Whitelegg on two separate local developments reflected the increasingly problematic philosophy behind the city council's planning agenda specifically the over-emphasis upon expensive town houses and big name retail rather than more creative, environmentally sound ventures.

Wedging yet more bricks and mortar into every corner, and even across scarce greenspace, risks irreversibly eroding the city's character and health.

Even the much needed refurbishment of dilapidated buildings has been aimed chiefly at potential residents rather than the needs of those who already live and work here.

Perhaps certain members of the council would benefit from recalling the signposted routes into the city which promise visitors the pleasure of Lancaster: Historic City' and not Lancaster: Overdeveloped and Proud of It' Samantha McGarry, Lancaster