The new proposals for Coppergate II seem to satisfy the conservation lobby with the modifications from the previous proposals.

Isn't it now time to get on with the job and to begin the process of revitalising the Piccadilly/Walmgate areas of the city? We already have the new hotel development on the corner of Piccadilly; there are new flats and apartments opposite and I welcome the proposals to extend Coppergate down towards this area.

As a business operating in the area, we naturally have a vested interest. But isn't it better to be operating in an area of attractive and thriving growth than to allow decay to set in?

York will always be an attraction to visitors, and the arguments that the Coppergate development will draw people away from the historic core do not stand up, when one considers that people come to the city for different reasons.

Shopping is now identified clearly as a leisure pursuit, whether we like it or not, and if York's development can continue positively then if extra visitors do arrive there at least will be extra facilities to provide for them. Let's face it: York has been developing for more than 2000 years so why stop now?

Colin Marsh

Proprietor,

St. Denys and Blue

Bridge Hotels, York.