IT was with stunned amazement that I read Coun Richard Watson's letter and, in particular, the councillor's view that "...it would have been far more arrogant to dismiss the advice of professionals than to participate in reasoned debate and come to an appropriate decision". (May 4)

Has City of York Council recently issued a new policy on how its members should consider planning applications, or is it just a case of councillor arrogance presenting a lame argument for not being able or prepared to have a reasoned debate?

I am aware of a recent decision in York where the planning officer responsible presented the planning committee with an exceptionally detailed and well considered case with the recommendation that an imaginative small scheme should be approved, yet the committee unanimously rejected the application.

I should be fascinated to learn whether others have had such an experience which rather flies in the face of the councillor's views on not dismissing the advice of professionals.

I find it difficult to imagine how the new Barbican conference centre/concert hall could be a success with the proposed extensive loss of car parking from the current five car parking sites within close walking distance of the site.

Having travelled into York to attend various excellent Barbican concerts down the years and being able to park within a manageable walking distance I wonder how it is intended for those arriving by car from outside the city to be accommodated when the new Barbican opens?

Christopher Hearn,

The Homestead,

Flaxton, York.

Updated: 10:09 Tuesday, June 01, 2004