SOME of the initial reactions from York residents were sceptical. This is understandable.

Coming so soon after it staged a fireworks display that half the spectators couldn't see, City of York Council's ability to revolutionise every aspect of city governance was bound to be called into question.

Today, however, is not about the nitty-gritty. It is about the vision. And York should be excited by the bold plans to change the way the council works.

As you would expect from a city which has evolved over many centuries, its administration is a geographically haphazard affair.

A visit to the financial, planning and parks departments involves three different locations. Even a veteran user of council services would struggle to point to all its offices on a street map.

The greatest advantage of a wholesale move to Hungate, then, is council accessibility. This really would be a one-stop shop. And, being built to the most modern standards, the new HQ would be equally user-friendly for disabled and able-bodied people.

The second major benefit is cost. Although the capital outlay is scary, the long-term savings would be substantial. More than that, a fabulous new council building should make for a happier, more creative working environment. This can only be good for York.

There are many obstacles, not least the relocation of the Peasholme homeless hostel when the controversial search for a new Arc Light building is ongoing.

But for now, we should commend the ambition and endorse the principles underpinning this spectacular scheme.

Updated: 10:37 Monday, November 14, 2005