Sir, – I refer to the article about the proposed retail park at Scotch Corner (D&S, Dec 26).

Rural North Yorkshire needs to decide what it actually wants for its sustainable future. In the case of of Hambleton District Council and Northallerton businesses I don't think they know what they want.

I applaud this development and what it will bring to Richmondshire district, namely hundreds of jobs created which means that families and the younger generation will be able to stay in the area having found work instead of been forced out.

Designer shops that are not currently in the area, ones that local people have to travel to taking business of the area would be be benefit to the local local economy surely?

In the case of Northallerton, over the last few years it has lost hundreds of jobs including the closed prison, but the problem that I have with their argument is that they want things for Northallerton only.

Hambleton District Council's economic development team chose to split away from the shared services initiative with Richmondshire District Council and has its own plans for their area. It has not consulted with Richmondshire market towns in this process.

However, I agree with Marcus Grover that our market towns need support and long-term strategic plans for the community and tourism, including free parking for all.

A designer outlet creating hundreds of jobs, bringing in hundreds of people to our area will be fantastic for the Richmondshire economy and should enhance the offer to tourists.

Andy Brook

Middleham.