I AM happy to reassure Richard Jackson about the recently-constructed traffic island on Knavesmire Road (Letters, May 4).

Regular users of the area will have realised this island has not been taken out and remains in place to help the many pedestrians and cyclists crossing this wide and busy stretch of road.

I am also happy to reassure readers the island will remain in place throughout Royal Ascot at York, because it will provide a vital safety aid for the thousands of pedestrians walking to and from the racecourse.

Peter Evely,

Head of network management,

City of York Council,

St Leonard's Place, York.

Updated: 10:24 Thursday, May 12, 2005