The controversy over a commercial development in Pollok Park points up the richness of Glasgow in its leafy parks and world-famous art collections, which are almost without exception the generous bequests of enlightened individuals, not the routine provision of the city council.

Like incalculable numbers of Glaswegians, my life has been greatly enhanced by this superb bounty and I have quietly savoured great satisfaction in witnessing the amazement of our house guests from abroad regarding "Britain's best-kept secret", according to one American friend.

It is, therefore, crucial that our elected administrators at this or any other time do not play fast and loose with our shared gifts and slip into knowing the price of everything and the value of nothing.

I already know of one important art collector who has changed his will to the city's loss for similar reasons. Beware, so that Glasgow can continue to flourish.

George Devline, 6 Falcon Terrace Lane, Glasgow.