I WAS happy to read that the city council is to allow ivy to grow on some parts of the city walls. As well as protecting vulnerable stone from acid rain and frost damage, ivy provides a fantastic refuge for wildlife.

Recently I reluctantly had to remove a large ivy from my house wall because of building work. I found snails and spiders, beetles and birds nests. The flowers attracted flies and moths and the berries were eaten by birds.

If ivy has to be removed, it can be composted, to create a heap heaving with life. I love ivy - it's brilliant for biodiversity and gives buildings extra character. Let it grow!

John Cossham,

Hull Road, York.

Updated: 10:24 Tuesday, November 27, 2001