The York Civic Trust annual report is, as ever, an entertaining and provocative read. This year much of the controversy will surround its verdict on the "pretty appalling" Travelodge hotel in Piccadilly, condemned for obscuring the Minster.

The trust believes that the hotel has ruined "one of the most important views of the Minster". That will be news to many residents, who were unaware the view existed.

The trust is right to place York's great cathedral at the heart of its work. And planning folklore does suggest that new buildings should be designed to ensure the Minster's dominance of the skyline is maintained.

Nevertheless, the criticism of the Travelodge is excessive. It has been sensitively designed and built in natural limestone to be pleasingly compatible with its environment. The building is, without doubt, a considerable improvement on the Tyke Petroleum petrol station and the rest of that tatty corner.

Interestingly, the Civic Trust's concern about the Minster outlook did not evolve into a full scale campaign to save it. Perhaps if a greater fuss had been made before the hotel was built, more residents would have noticed the view and objected to the plans. As things stand, the hotel is built and most citizens seem happy.

Another trust brickbat is directed at Brubakers, which has defaced the art deco facade of the former Forsselius garage with its window advertisements. They "spoil the dignity" of the building, the trust says, a view that will not be disputed in this quarter.

Few will agree with every opinion expressed by the Civic Trust, but we can all agree that its work is invaluable. The members, independent of political of financial commitments, have the best interests of York at heart. Neither are they against progress - unless it is considered destructive.

The trust is the guardian of our heritage, the watchdog of good taste. Through argument and through renovation work, it has enhanced the fabric of this city.