Having sat through City of York Council’s recent planning committee at which the Teardrop site was discussed, I am left tearful about what lies in store (York Central step closer as permission is granted, March 27).

The Conservative and Liberal Democrat members appeared, in some predetermined way, to disregard concerns raised by York organisations the Civic Trust, Environment Forum, York Central Action, Bus Forum, Cycle Campaign, Clear Air York, local councillors and residents.

Concerns include sustainability and over-development, lack of imagination and economic appraisal, congestion, and the galling 80 per cent of unaffordable housing.

This special piece of land in the heart of our city offers a real opportunity to regenerate York and ‘future-proof’ against total dependence on the tourism industry. The outline plan has no flagship employer or industry lined up to make this a powerhouse for York people.

I fear we could end up with more of the same on this precious site; London-price apartments used as second homes or holiday lets, hotel beds (400 are now in the plan) plus obsolescent offices, destined to become unaffordable dwellings.

Elected members had an opportunity to defer this decision and make it fit for what York needs. The Labour, Independent and Green members were sadly outnumbered, and the motion to defer was lost.

Sue Cooke,

Windmill Rise,

Holgate, York