I ATTENDED Tang Hall School when Mr Baxter was headmaster, when we played marbles in a little garden area, did handstands and enjoyed skipping.

Opposite the school were the canteens, extra school rooms and the allotment, all quite in order.

Years pass, the buildings go beyond repair, the allotment becomes unkempt so the idea of building flats to meet the needs of families seeking homes is a great idea.

I have seen the new flats being built and they have now been up some time. I have tried to give them a chance for them to fit into the surroundings.

Even after an acceptable period of time, I cannot change my opinion. Aesthetically the flats are very good. The design is praise-worthy externally, but they really do not fit in with other nearby buildings.

The architect is clever and I would like a flat there too, but I cannot understand how they received planning permission. They would be more suitable in a modern environment.

Placed opposite pre-war, ex-council houses, next door to an old people's "mini town" and opposite an old school, it does not seem quite correct.

Does anybody else share the same opinion?

Berenice Gardein,

Third Avenue,

Heworth,

York.

Updated: 11:49 Saturday, September 07, 2002