WHEN I started as an architectural student in 1969, Hudson House was lauded as a fine example of contemporary design.

It was featured in glossy magazines and received at least one award.

It was named after George Hudson, The Railway King, who rose to prominence but then fell from grace and died a broken man.

It is therefore ironic, if not to say tragic, that the building named in honour of him looks like suffering the same fate.

Matthew Laverack, Lord Mayors Walk, York