Sir, - Now that the Richmond station debate is moving forward and the community has been given the opportunity by Richmondshire District Council to work up its community project to use the building alongside two private developer bids, perhaps Stuart Parsons, Lib Dem Mayor of Richmond, might have had time to reflect on his rather foolish soundbites (D&S, Nov 8). I say perhaps because Mr Parsons is never a man to allow the facts to get in the way of his comments.

The facts are that it was my proposal at the resources committee on September 24 that set up the well attended public meeting where four private developers made presentations.

My proposal required a minimum space of one week (in reality two weeks) between that public meeting and the resources committee on November 6, and it was during this period that a large number of public comments were received which the committee considered on the day.

It was also during this period that the momentum for a community project built up a huge head of steam. In short this appears an excellent example of proper public consultation.

There was serious public concern that the station building might fall into the hands of a developer with flawed finances or a flawed project, or both, and then quickly passed on to another developer with unknown and publicly untested motives or plans.

Whilst I stress the council has left all its options open as regards the ownership of the station building, these concerns were real enough, and the only way we could address them properly was during the actual presentations the developers made to the committee.

As the sensitive confidential and financial information needed to be teased out and probed this had to be done in private session. We owed the local public in Richmond nothing less than to do this job responsibly.

It was my proposal during this private session, seconded by the highly respected member for Richmond West, Coun Jane Metcalfe, that was unanimously supported by all members of the committee on November 6. This has opened the way for the community project to come forward.

Stuart Parsons chose to characterise this as black and very bad news for the town. Many think it was local democracy in action, and the outcome a red letter day for Richmond.

Coun JOHN BLACKIE

Leader, Richmondshire District Council.

Room for all

Sir, - It was with disappointment I read of Thirsk Chamber of Trade's comments regarding farmers' markets(D&S, Nov 15).

The number of stalls on market days has been in decline over the last few years so surely new traders should be welcomed. If people are to be encouraged to shop in Thirsk, offering a wider selection of stalls can only be beneficial.

It seems whenever farmers' markets are held shopkeepers and stall-holders object, but what about the consumer? The markets' success show there is a demand for local produce bought direct from producers.

Perhaps the chamber of trade could consider the views of those of us who regard the farmers' markets as an asset to the town and wish to continue to support local produers.

Surely one day a month there is enough room for everyone.

SUE COATES

Carlton Miniott,

Thirsk.

Consult us

Sir, - On Monday, several residents of Eastbourne Ward attended the public viewing of plans to re-locate Darlington College to the Torrington site at the edge of the Eastbourne area. There were about 30-35 people there.

We would like to congratulate the principal of the college for hosting the event and explaining and answering questions from the public. She was well informed and enthusiastic regarding the college's proposed move but what a shame she was put in the position of having to answer questions from local residents regarding the proposed re-development of the Cleveland Avenue site.

Admittedly the college's property advisors jumped the gun by advertising the Cleveland Avenue site for sale, but surely a councillor or member of the planning department could have attended to explain the plan on display which showed potential buildings of two to four storeys high.

Many people in the Eastbourne area welcome this modern campus but remain concerned that 350 potential parking spaces is not sufficient for 15,000 students and 500 staff when land on the site has been allocated to three football pitches.

When will the council turn out to consult in both areas ?

JAN MAZURK

Neasham Road,

Darlington.

Another change

Sir, - As a Teessider for nearly 40 years, may I support the move for a City of Teesside (D&S letters, Nov 8 and 15). It's just a pity more was not made of this idea in public over that period.

But it's not too late to push for a unified area again. Teesside County Borough lasted for six years, Cleveland County Council for 22 and now the four boroughs have been going for six years. Maybe it's time for a fourth change?

MICHAEL MORRISSEY

Hob Hill Close,

Saltburn.

What about basics?

Sir, - Pleased as I am that the Obelisk in Richmond market square is being repaired (D&S, Nov 8). I would be even more so if some of that money could have been spared to construct a bus shelter. Richmond may be high in lists for the quality of life but it needs to improve its shopping facilities and a bus shelter would certainly be one of them.

IRENE BRAITHWAITE

Market Place,

Leyburn.