I share Sid Taylor’s concern (February 4) about development in Malton and Norton and the inadequacy of local roads to cater for the the development planned. The key problem is the bridge/crossing bottleneck in Castlegate.

Unfortunately, when I proposed a long-term plan for a new bridge, funded largely by development, at the Local Plan inquiry, I was told it was a “good idea”, but too difficult and long term to be included in the plan. A further suggestion that a detailed study should now be commissioned to provide the basis for a future plan, was also rebuffed.

But this is precisely the sort of forward planning we need if we are to stop the piecemeal “development by appeal” that is the current norm.

I hope that Sid and others will now join with me in pressing the district council for a proper study.

Michael Gwilliam, Norton