THE council’s report on the big Wheel proposal (The Press, February 11) admits its many adverse effects. The only argument in its favour seems to be the opportunity to clear and open up land behind York Art Gallery.

That’s a good project, but it could have been done at any time. The so-called ‘opportunity’ now is only the opportunity to get the Wheel company to pay for it.

But what if our council clears the area anyhow (volunteers could help) and lays it out for leisure uses that would pay for the clearance, and would bring people back again and again, not just once like a Wheel?

There could be tennis courts – or a new bowling green!

Do we need the Wheel? Your photo from the art gallery roof inadvertently reveals York’s best viewing platform. The Minster’s Central Tower is open to young and old, at least the able bodied. It’s 25ft higher than the proposed wheel, offers far better views, and, best of all, it stays still while you look around you.

But if there must be a Wheel, let it be by the NRM again. All together now: No Wheel within the walls!

John Heawood, Eastward Avenue, Fulford, York.