In response to Councillor Hall's letter (Tuesday, April 15), the possibility of a construction haul road across the land to the east of Metcalf Lane on to the proposed development site at Osbaldwick is faced with significant obstacles.

I have to say that a successful negotiation for this route is unlikely.

There are several landowners affected by such a proposal and all would need to agree.

Further to this, it has to be appreciated that such a road, albeit temporary, would have a significant, concentrated, long-term environmental and ecological impact on what is a sector of green belt land. This will be a matter of extreme concern for the Planning Authority.

Given the understandable concern of local people, we are prepared to explore the matter further but must make it clear that the prospects are not good.

Whatever construction strategy statement is developed, it will be discussed with the consultation panel, on which Osbaldwick Parish Council has representation.

I can assure you that we are committed to a construction approach that will seek to minimise disruption to the surrounding residential areas.

But this will have to be worked through in the context of what can reasonably be achieved, with guidance from, and with the approval of the Highway Authority.

Roland Crooke,

Director of Housing Operations,

Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust,

White Rose Avenue,

New Earswick,

York.

Updated: 10:37 Tuesday, May 06, 2003