INNOVATION inevitably causes a few raised eyebrows and concern. By its very definition, innovaton is about something new, so people are entering the unknown.

It, therefore, comes as no surprise to learn that there is some concern about the design of the proposed new school building for St Stephen's in Skipton.

We are told that the new development will be ecologically sound and environmentally friendly and will be built on the grassy avenue leading up to church.

So what makes it so different? In a couple of words: grass roofs.

The school authorities are hoping to erect six single storey classrooms with grassed flat roofs. This, they say, will lessen their impact on the surrounding area and protect them in extreme weather.

Architect Jim Wales describes the scheme as "innovative, green and sensitive", but what the planners will make of it is anyone's guess.

Whatever the outcome, we hope that the plans will be given due consideration, and not be dismissed out of hand because they represent something different.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.