It is unfortunate that the discovery of a coffin containing a girl's body on the Eastbrook Hall site should have caused a snag for the development work that is taking place there. However, it is only right and proper that the correct procedures should now be gone through and that the remains be accorded the dignity they deserve.

Given that Eastbrook Hall was built in 1904 on the site of the former Eastbrook Chapel and burial ground, it is not unreasonable to assume that the Edwardian builders would have made sure that all remains were removed. However, it now seems likely that although most of the bodies were disinterred and reburied elsewhere in Bradford, at least two were left untouched for some reason and the new place of worship built on top.

Now this body has been discovered, it has become clear that even though the work taking place at the site is replacing a previous development on a burial ground, Ham Construction should have obtained a licence after advertising its intention to build.

The Edwardians might have been allowed to be remiss in their procedures, but nowadays we are more attuned to the people's sensibilities, particularly those of any surviving descendants.

According to the law, Ham Construction cannot now dig on the actual burial ground (although they can clear the site) and must apply for a licence. Although this might be necessary to allow the matter to be dealt with properly and with respect, it is to be hoped that it does not delay for too long a prestigious project which is an important part of the regeneration of central Bradford.