WHILE it is good to see that another two local councils are supporting the proposed York potash development at Sneaton, near Whitby, what will cause concern is planning officers not making any recommendations or providing options for members of the North York Moors planning committee when the application comes up for decision at the end of June.

However, as reported on the front page of The Northern Echo ‘Beauty is priority in potash decision’ (June 19) the three councils of Scarborough, Ryedale and Redcar and Cleveland are now looking forward to the North Yorks national parks giving Sirius Chemicals the go-ahead to create a development that will create more than 1,000 jobs for the local communities.

One can certainly understand people’s apprehensions that a beautiful area like the North York Moors should not be scarred by such a mining operation.

Having dealt with Sirius Minerals PLC in a recent previous life I found them very amenable and sympathetic to fears about intrusive mining works etc.

One hopes that all parties can work out what is best for all.

I certainly believe 1,000 jobs will enrich everyone throughout our region.

Hence, while beauty in this part of Yorkshire is a top priority, surely more than 1,000 well-paid jobs is also a top priority?

Plus have we not seen beauty and industry working side by side to create the best of both worlds?

George Dunning, Ormesby.