THERE has been much discussion regarding the planning merits of the Derwenthorpe proposal but as a council tax payer and therefore a shareholder of City of York PLC, I believe that I and other council tax payers should know what financial deal has been struck between City of York and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF).

There is no reason why this information should remain confidential, other than to cover the embarrassment of council officials. The value of the land on the open market, with planning permission, is significantly in excess of £1 million per acre and if it has been sold at this level it would significantly benefit the citizens of York. If it has been sold at this level, why are we not celebrating?

If, on the other hand it has been sold at a knock-down price to JRF, questions should be asked about the competence of council officials, the motives of councillors and the business practices of JRF.

If the land has been undersold to JRF, as a responsible charitable organisation, they should withdraw from the purchase and the land should be marketed properly.

York council has a legal obligation to sell land at "best value." In this case there is a strong suspicion that they have achieved Lord Richard Best Value.

J Harrison,

Wigginton Road,

York.

Updated: 11:48 Friday, January 28, 2005