NEWGATE Market is presently subject to criticism, mainly for its reduced commercial appeal.

This is not everyone's opinion; some accept retail activity fluctuates seasonally, and while most traders would prefer Parliament Street, the additional cost to the council in resiting and rate clashes with shops make this very unlikely.

Other towns such as Oldham, Bury, and Rochdale have similar problems, starting in their cases from a much larger base and with indoor sections as well. Traders sell what they can and adapt, as most Newgate traders have, to changing demands and competition. There is always something that can be improved.

The various access points from Shambles could be better lit and modern lighting to the periphery would improve the feeling for female customers in darker winter days. Silver Street is a dull access, improved when bright attractive stalls are on the St Sampson's centre side.

The good news is that relocation of the Parliament Street toilets to this area will increase pedestrian throughput to the market.

As part of this development, perhaps better signs or advertising displays will invite interest.

Are stallholders' other facilities as good as they should be, and can they suggest detailed improvements?

I use the market once a week, usually at the same time of day, so unlike market traders I don't see the full picture.

To them I say, use your collective voice to make sensible suggestions.

Don't just blame management, who have used the various different productions in Parliament Street to promote the city centre, including Newgate.

I have to admit an interest. I was involved in the construction of the market in 1991.

It's not what it is or even where it is (I don't know of a more central market), but how it's used by traders, public, both local and visiting.

Efforts spent in its promotion will not be a waste.

Phil Crowder, York Road, Haxby, York.