POLITICS is often a blood sport. In his letter of July 17, Conservative councillor Joe Watt accused me of having personal “contempt for York homeowners”.
Since being elected leader, I have sadly come to expect such personal attacks. Previously Cllr Watt made comments about myself not being able to buy a home in York.
The council is developing a long-term plan because it is a requirement of national Government and because it is the right thing to do. York has had no local plan since 1956 and has never officially defined green-belt boundaries.
We do this not because of contempt for homeowners, but because we think more York residents should have the opportunity to work hard and become homeowners. York families are being priced out of their own city.
Cllr Watt called on the council to “make ‘greenfield’ development modest and incremental”. I look forward to him explaining which village extensions Conservatives would prefer to new rural settlements.
Cllr James Alexander, Labour Leader, City of York Council
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel