TO Worcester Civic Society, it's a "formidable" wish list. To others around the Faithful City, "fanciful" may be a more fitting description.

Whichever, the Planning for Real exercise which has generated so many ideas about the future of Worcester is also vital. But that's not all.

To Civic Society spokesman Mike Sumpner's "illuminating", we'd add the word encouraging.

Because, although the list of ideas reflects the thinking of just a selection of visitors to The Commandery, it's a sign that Joe Glovemaker and Family are beginning to take possession of the city they call home. And it's not before time that they have.

Some of the proposals, it has to be said, capture the imagination more than others. At first sight, post-flooding, the suggestion that Diglis be developed to provide watersports enthusiasts with a city centre venue requires to be taken with a small pinch of salt. But why not?

Likewise, while the idea of a theme park big dipper in Pheasant Street would call for a significant adjustment in thinking for many, it might add a dimension to city centre life which only exists a couple of times a year otherwise. Let's not dismiss it too readily.

Then there's the suggestion of a Severnside green walkway, and an imaginative idea to deal with traffic congestion by building a one-way bridge over the river.

So, formidable, fanciful, illuminating or encouraging? The only worry is that we're uncertain what will come of the hard work and thought which has gone in to the project so far.

From where we sit, the city council must continue taking views about Worcester's future and maintain whatever momentum has gathered behind Planning for Real.

Over the years, there have been too many talking shops, too many talkers constricted by prejudice or politics. It's time for words to be followed by action.