The current consultation on tackling traffic in York gives us little choice other than to opt for an increase in traffic levels ranging from eight to 20 per cent. The last thing we need in York is yet more traffic.

The council recently made a commitment to tackle climate change by cutting local carbon dioxide emissions by at least 40 per cent by 2020. This target will be difficult to achieve unless transport also contributes towards cutting emissions. To stay on target we need to cut traffic levels by at least 15 per cent and cars need to improve their average fuel efficiency by 24 per cent.

There are many ways in which we can reduce local traffic. For example, one of our twin towns, Munster in Germany, has promoted cycling and now 37.6 per cent of all journeys are made by bicycle.

The town has been described as the world’s most liveable city. Why can’t York be like this? An increase in cycling would also help York to achieve its objective to become a “Healthy City”.

We could promote a smarter travel choices programme, where people are given tailored information on alternatives to car use.

We could do far more to improve local bus services. More buses, better routes, tickets valid for any bus operator and cheap fares would all encourage more people to leave their cars at home.

Please contact your councillors and let them know York needs less traffic, not more.

Guy Wallbanks, Co-ordinator, York and Ryedale Friends of the Earth, Kingsway West, York.