WITH regard to D Hall's letter about the new small business eco-centre (January 1), can I make the following points.

The centre will provide modern space for local business to grow. It is an important part of the city economic regeneration strategy and is being built in partnership with the private sector Helmsley Group.

It is being partially funded from the sale of the existing centre on Terry Avenue. Hence the funding would not have been available for other projects.

As with all new developments these days, one requirement from the planning permission is that a "green travel plan" be established.

The road systems in and around York - in common with many other prosperous cities - do become congested on occasions. The council has just received an "excellent" independent rating for its future transport plan, which includes measures to improve junctions on the ring road as well as encouraging alternatives to car use.

Coun Stephen Galloway, Leader of City of York Council, Stirrup Close, Foxwood Lane, York