YORK planners consider the future of the Piccadilly-Castle site tomorrow. The proposals are the most difficult and contentious to be put before them in many years.

York is divided by Coppergate Riverside. Some believe it detracts from the area's heritage and others feel it is crucial for our future prosperity.

The aerial photograph on page seven neatly illustrates the dilemma facing planners. To the west is Clifford's Tower and the Eye of York, resonant symbols of York's long and distinguished history. To the east is Piccadilly, an ugly parade of mismatching office blocks and tatty shops.

Planners must approve a scheme that replaces these buildings and the equally unsightly Castle car park without defacing York's historic beauty.

At the same time, the council must be mindful of its responsibility to protect the city's future prosperity.

The Evening Press has consistently argued that this site is crying out for development. Piccadilly is an eyesore. The River Foss is a lost opportunity. The Castle car park is a mess.

Moreover, York city centre needs the sort of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities provided by Coppergate Riverside to counteract the threat from out-of-town retail parks.

York must not become a museum. The commercial development of the city's other river, the Ouse, has proved a great success. Businesses such as the Pitcher & Piano, City Screen and Bar 38 have transformed the neglected riverside into a lively, popular and attractive location. The same can be done on the Foss.

Land Securities has improved its plans for Coppergate Riverside in response to justified fears about its impact on the immediate environment.

Tomorrow, planners must take into account a large body of opinion that believes the development still detracts from the Castle. The plans may well require further refinement. We should take our time and undertake as many revisions as are necessary. Stonebow House is a reminder of the dangers of haste.

Ultimately, however, planners must give consent to the sensitive commercial, residential and leisure development of this site. Aesthetically and economically, it is in York's best interests that they do so.