COUN Reid's explanation about next year's public inquiry into the proposed developments at Germany Beck and Derwenthorpe needs to be balanced (November 17).

Coun Reid spoke from the viewpoint of City of York Council, and it is clear that the staff, the expertise and the financial resources available to the council and the developers will dwarf what is available to the groups questioning or opposing the developments, in part or total.

It is essential that the inquiry is conducted on an equal footing, and that the developers do not win their case solely on account of financial muscle.

Could some expense be spared had the council taken account of what local concerns and objections are? I don't believe it is too late.

How ironic that York will spend taxpayers' money, including elements of what is raised within Fulford, while the Fulford Parish Council is appealing for assistance of a practical nature, and if possible, finance, to bring the city council and developers to account for their combined plans.

For more details, visit the Fulford Parish Council's website fulfordpc.org.uk

Alan Smith,

Fordlands Road, Fulford, York

Updated: 10:55 Tuesday, November 22, 2005