IT IS very pleasing to note that the beautiful terrace of former town houses cum council offices cum derelict buildings is not going to be turned into yet another unnecessary hotel in the city.

However, it is rather worrying to see that it will now be turned into luxury homes, including even more flats.

We moved into York in 1966 and so far as I can remember, those buildings have been the offices of councils of various persuasion. As they were offices of the council, presumably the ratepayers of York and district paid for their upkeep.

When, or if, planning permission is granted for such change of use, there should be a proviso that a number of properties be handed over to become homes for rent by people on the housing waiting list.

Also, they should be good family homes, not one-bedroomed flats to act as a placebo. After all, developers of new properties have to hand over so many of theirs so why should this be any different?

Janet S Kitchen-Cooper, Ashley Park Road, York.