MS OVERHILL-SMITH underestimates and misrepresents the strength of opposition to City of York Council's proposals for the Oaken Grove site (Letters, March 25).

She refers to a 'minority'. Please note more than 1,500 people signed a petition opposing the plans.

As for 'extensive consultation', Haxby Town Council denies this claim. There has been no 'extensive consultation'. Opposition was clear and widespread at the recent ward meeting.

More than 40 people attended a protest group meeting on March 26 to co-ordinate further opposition.

Where is the support for the plans? This is a 'myth'. User groups using the site were given a take it or lose it option.

There needs to be detailed consultation with the whole community before the council makes proposals.

Haxby cannot afford to lose this open space when we are already below Government guidelines for recreational areas.

Why cannot we look to future generations and make this area the Haxby Golden Jubilee Field? Our children may thank us, in the same way York residents now thank past generations for keeping the Museum Gardens "a green and open space".

P W and C A McKenna,

Oaken Grove,

Haxby,

York.

Updated: 09:46 Saturday, March 30, 2002