THERE has been much talk recently of improvements to our riversides to make them more visually attractive and to make better use of them.

The well-publicised "Without Walls" consultations on the way forward for our city quotes UK and continental examples indicating how, from unpromising beginnings, marvellous cityscapes can be produced, giving pleasure to residents and visitors alike.

Yet turning to the stretch of the esplanade by the Museum Gardens between Lendal and Scarborough bridges what do we find?

The erection of tacky timber surrounds to every tree, completely ruining the open aspect of the newly re-laid paving. Who on earth sanctioned this monstrosity?

It seems that in York we still take two steps back for every one step we take forward.

Or have I missed something?

Philip Crowe,

Clifton, York.

Updated: 10:27 Thursday, April 03, 2003