PETER G Richardson's letter ('Let's keep Huntington out of it', May 13) opens up the debate once again about the merits of development on greenfield land at New Lane Huntington and Osbaldwick.

I am sure he would like to "keep Huntington out of it". However, there are a number of reason why Huntington has been "dragged into the equation" by objectors to Derwenthorpe, including these facts:

New Lane (despite Steve Galloway's assertion that it was green belt) is designated a greenfield site, as is the land west of Metcalfe Lane, Osbaldwick.

The proposal for New Lane was for 600 homes, 300 affordable. For Osbaldwick it's 540 with 216 being affordable.

There would be no major traffic problems accessing the New Lane site and minimal disruption to existing residents. Unlike Derwenthorpe there would be no risk of flooding, no destruction of ancient ridge and furrow meadows and hedgerows and no damage to wildlife habitats.

Huntington has three Lib Dem councillors actively representing their cause.

The Lib-Dem member for Osbaldwick is unsupportive of residents against Derwenthorpe.

The Greenbelt Working Group that eventually made the decision to de-allocate New Lane consisted predominately of Lib-Dem councillors, one actually represents the Huntington ward.

It is clear that, despite the city council's call for more properties to be built in the city, political influence is playing a major part in planning decisions - in this instance, removing 600 homes at a stroke.

This is an example of council bias and inability to provide a level playing field for all.

D Spaven,

Meadlands,

York.

Updated: 11:20 Tuesday, May 24, 2005