IT GRIEVES me to be in agreement with a socialist, but Sir Hugh Bayley is spot on with his criticism of opposition councillors regarding the Local Plan. York has a desperate need for more new homes and, regrettably, some of them will have to be built on the green belt.

Sadly, some opposition groups are showing a disregard for the many young people who are struggling to get on the housing ladder.

I wonder if these councillors understand what it can be like trying to obtain a house in York. The evidence on our housing need is overwhelming. Having defeated Labour’s outrageous plan of 2013, which really would have destroyed large swathes of green belt, it is time to move forward expeditiously with the right plan for York.

I warn those intending to stand for election in May, if you do not have the courage to tell it as it is regarding the local plan, but instead plan to deceive the electorate, you will be rewarded with rejection.

Cllr Joe Watt, Independent member for Skelton, Rawcliffe & Clifton Without, Skelton, York.