I must disagree with my fellow architect Richard Blenkharn that the Castle site proposals are unacceptable because they are a "boring brick box" (Letters, November 2).

There is nothing wrong with brick boxes. They have been built in York for centuries for very good reasons which are just as valid today as they were before. Indeed, brick boxes may well be regarded as the most appropriate form of development in the centre of this historic city.

No, the problem with Coppergate Phase Two is not one of style but of size. Despite the amendments the scheme remains a gross over-development of the site. The buildings are simply too big, too high, too close to Listed structures, and too destructive.

To implement the scheme every single existing tree will need to be felled in direct contravention of York council's planning policy on trees in conservation areas and in spite of repeated central government encouragement to 'green the cities'.

The development should be opposed for these reasons rather than any subjective view as to the style of architecture proposed.

Matthew Laverack,

Chartered Architect,

Lord Mayors Walk,

York.

...the developers' improved proposals for the Coppergate Centre extension (Evening Press, October 29) is, I believe, a cynical rehash of their original failed concept and, as such, an insult to those who provided constructive criticism of the initial development.

One should not be beguiled by artists' impressions. Like fashion drawings they have little to do with reality! Take that 'snazzy' glass fronted restaurant for instance. How good will that structure look after a few years' wear and tear, even if birds are not allowed to overfly or roost on its gleaming ledges? I believe and know it could have been designed and constructed in a style equally attractive but more appropriate to its location. Gimmick styling is just not on.

This scheme requires nothing less than a total re-think employing inspired planning and quality architecture that can stand comfortably alongside the classical buildings gracing the Eye of York. But do the developers or City planning department have the skill to supply it?

Derek R Wortley,

Bishopthorpe Road,

York.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.