SO the city council is contemplating relocating its office staff on to one purpose built site and selling off existing council-owned property, thereby assisting council finance (Evening Press, October 13).

If this brings some comfort to the city council's overburdened taxpayers, it's an excellent idea, one to be applauded.

However, to consider Terry's vacant factory, a prime residential site adjacent to the racecourse with a price tag attached way beyond what a cash-strapped council can afford, would be economic madness.

I would suggest to Mr Galloway to consider sites that will not cost us an arm and a leg, or better still one that the council already owns - such as land west of Metcalfe Lane, Osbaldwick. As a purpose-built city council HQ, a relocation there could provide many benefits:

Majority of site owned by the council - minimum capital land cost.

Sell off existing properties - maximum revenue income.

Staff and offices under one roof - improved productivity.

Build offices on the redundant electricity grid site - brownfield development adheres to Government policy guidance.

Direct connection with the council depot at Foss Islands Road and the city centre via the Sustrans track - contact with workforce.

Offices accessible to citizens and staff using the No. 6 bus, ten minutes service and nearby Park & Ride - less city traffic.

Improved Sustrans track for cyclist's and pedestrians - less pollution.

Maintain flood plain adjacent to Osbaldwick beck - no increased risk of flooding to existing properties, Environment Agency approved.

Maintain existing open space, hedgerows, wildlife habitats, flaura & fauna. Manage open space as local amenity parkland - environmentally friendly.

An accessible/communal parkland setting such as this would also confirm the Lib Dems as an environmentally friendly council. It could also have the support of local people.

D Spaven,

Meadlands, York.

Updated: 09:47 Wednesday, October 20, 2004