THE following is an open letter sent to Lancaster City Council and the Citizen.

We write as representatives of several local groups who are concerned about the effect that the proposals contained in the draft local plan will have on the district. We are particularly concerned at the time-scale being allowed for initial public consultation. The plan is a complex document of 200 pages plus several development briefs.

It will inform planning decisions for the next 10 years. Its delayed release just before Christmas with submissions received before January 1 will have the effect of minimising serious public debate, as many people will be too busy preparing for Christmas to have time to study it.

Jon Barry (Lancaster Green Party), Alex Ainsworth (Lancaster and District Bus Users Group), Willow Deacon (Lancaster Green Spaces).

Right, you've had your warning from the Greens - if you have any views on the plan make sure they're heard. Let them or us know and then you can't say you weren't consulted. - Ed.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.