HERE is the latest score from the York planning league: Campaigners 1, Developers 1.

While city centre residents celebrated the big wheel coming off, Heslington villagers were angered by council backing for the university expansion.

World Tourist Attractions' was right to withdraw an application to build the wheel on Tower Gardens.

The site is simply too small.

We are also pleased to note that the company has not given up on York. Another application for a more suitable location would be welcome.

There are those who argue that the big wheel is unsuitable for a small, historic city such as York. But this is not a tacky fairground attraction, just a quiet observation "eye".

During its brief stay, the wheel would give everyone the chance to view York's heritage from a new perspective. And shouldn't there be room in our ancient city for some fun?

The campus expansion has far larger and more enduring implications. York University has brought untold benefits to the city, socially and economically.

York's future prosperity is closely linked with its success. Few would argue against the university's desire to grow, creating thousands of jobs in the process.

The debate is where. Although York has large brownfield sites available, a substantial chunk of greenfield land will be lost under the current plans. The environmental impact would be significant and irreversible.

Councillors must listen carefully to all sides before making this enormously difficult decision.

Updated: 09:42 Friday, March 04, 2005