THE Evening Press reported on both the development around Cliffords Tower and the demand for financial aid for flood relief (January 17).

It has occurred to me that a large underground car park in this part of York could be vacated to provide a reservoir for flood water, when necessary.

In addition, surface flood water could be contained at ground level and frozen to provide open air skating during winter months. One of many such city amenities is highly successful adjoining the Rockefeller Centre in New York.

Barbara Whiting,

Heslington Lane,

Heslington, York.

...THE latest comment by the Castle Area Campaign Group spokesman, Mr Stuart Wilson, is the last straw.

Quote: Out of keeping with Law Courts, Castle Museum, Debtor's Prison. For the past 50 years we have had a collection of Nissan-tin huts, asbestos roofing and run-down buildings. Is this the heritage he refers to?

The proposed development is no nearer to the tower than the hotel (not the finest of buildings). Also, have a good look at Tower Street - dropping to pieces by the day. Get on with it.

Mr L Martin,

Fairfax Street,

Updated: 10:50 Thursday, January 24, 2002