THE black hole faced by the city council (The Press, June 24) in its property services department has been explained in a report as “over ambitious” with delays in managing the project etc.

Perhaps the more obvious answer is the over-ambitious process of upgrading the social housing stock by expensive installations to make them eco-friendly when lower cost levels could be applied.

Bear in mind that as these projects are completed the houses are upgraded to a level far beyond the reach of the ordinary mortgage paying tenant in their own houses.

Consider also that many of the social houses have tenants who unfortunately, have an income level which means that the council will not receive any income from the property.

To sum up, the council is spending on social housing large amounts of money which it is known will not bring revenue and must be more frugal with its eco-friendly plans. Or, “when you are in a hole stop digging”.

J Beisly, Osprey Close, York.