STEVE Galloway is right. The development of York Central could make the greatest impact on our city since the railways.

As well as transforming a stagnating market town into a dynamic city, the railways imprisoned the area now known as York Central. With happy synchronicity, its release and redevelopment should provide a modern springboard to future prosperity.

The scale, as set out in today's report to the city council, is unnerving. York Central is as big as the city centre. Save for a number of important railway buildings which should be preserved, it is a blank canvas.

That is not only a wonderful opportunity, but a terrible responsibility. The masterplan drawn up over the next few years will determine whether prospective generations applaud our vision or curse our myopia.

Balance, boldness and restraint are the key words. Everyone wants a piece of York Central. It has been touted as the solution to all the city's ills, ending the housing shortage, providing car parking for all, home to a first class sports stadium, an industrial park and a long-awaited bus station.

Almost all of this is possible. Much of it is desirable. But if York tries to please everyone, it will end up pleasing no one.

An improved quality of life for all residents is the fundamental principle which must drive the development. Here, transport is crucial.

Today's report sets out ambitious ideas on how to connect York Central with the city. It is noticeably dependent on cars and buses, rejecting a tram system and proposing the creation of 5,000 parking spaces.

The debate must begin on whether this is the best way forward.

Updated: 11:33 Wednesday, January 11, 2006