A lot of time and energy is spent on listening to and reacting to the views of adult residents in Bradford. But how often does anybody listen to what younger people have to say about what is after all the city of their future?

So a pioneering move by Bradford Property Forum to survey 15 to 25-year-olds online has to be welcomed. The city has one of the fastest growing young populations in the country, so the coming generations should have a say in the direction the city is taking.

What is often found when surveying adults, particularly those who have been in Bradford some time, is that they invariably dislike change.

Many have fond memories of their childhood and formative years in the city and an affection for particular locations and buildings that meant something to them. And there is no doubt that Bradford does have many wonderful buildings, particularly from the Victorian era, which must be preserved for the future.

But every generation has to remember that it is only a custodian of the city and it is important it leaves it in a reasonable state for the generation to come. Young people have a right to have their say about the type of city they want to live in and leave behind for the generations that follow them. They are, after all, the people who will be carrying the flame forward for Bradford in the future.

Undoubtedly, they will come up with interesting and exciting ideas that may improve the city.

But they also need to remember that they too will only be custodians of our city, and need to protect its heritage.

The results in three months time will be fascinating to see. And they must be given consideration in any future strategies developed for the city.

This extremely worthwhile exercise must be more than just lip service.