THE future of the Arc Light centre for the homeless has been one of the hottest topics in York, often dominating the news, comment and readers' letters pages of The Press.

The arguments for and against potential sites for a new centre have raged on - and, today, a final decision should be made.

Councillors have a tough task on their hands because whatever they decide, people will be upset.

Everyone supports Arc Light in theory, but no one seems to want it in their neighbourhood. That has always been the biggest problem facing all those involved in trying to thrash out a future for this important social service.

Of the four possible sites on the council's shortlist, one has been more or less ruled out, leaving three car parks as potential homes for Arc Light - with vociferous complaints from residents stirred up by each one.

Amid all the noise, it still has to be remembered that York needs a bigger and better Arc Light to accommodate the homeless. As volunteer Helen Maya points out in today's edition, anyone could end up being homeless, and York should have "a compassionate heart of which we can all be proud".

It is to be hoped that the councillors make a good and right decision, and that Arc Light can then move forwards.

As we report elsewhere today, other bodies in York also work in this area, the city-based York Nightstop among them. This charity, which tries to prevent young people from becoming homeless, has branched out into Hambleton, where it is having problems raising the donations it needs to do its vital work. Hopefully, its bid for funds will be accepted.

Updated: 09:38 Tuesday, May 02, 2006