We were very interested in the article on the ecological footprint technique ('Council urged to think green at all times', Evening Press, September 20) and the fact that senior councillors were meeting to discuss using it for comparing policies.

Putting this method at the heart of council decisions would have implications for the Coppergate II project.

If the aim of council policy is to improve residents' quality of life without increasing our unnecessary burden on the planet's resources, it seems clear which option for the Castle site should be favoured.

On the one hand is a huge area of land dedicated to ever-increasing consumption, waste generation and concrete, the plans for which lack any reference to solar energy or a wise use of resources.

On the other is a green, carbon-sinking area of park to provide a relaxing alternative to endless shopping.

Now, with even government bodies advocating radical change to policies and lifestyles to avoid further floods and global warming, the need for careful husbandry of the earth's resources should move up the planning agenda - even if there is a quick buck to be made by ignoring it.

Gordon Campbell-Thomas and Members of the Castle Area Campaign,

Vesper Drive, Acomb, York.

Updated: 10:06 Monday, September 30, 2002