I AM surprised a council that professes to be so much in favour of promoting the use of public transport in York is planning to do so much that will disrupt bus services in this city.

The proposal to prevent traffic using Walmgate Bar (May 25) is a good idea on the whole. Without our historical buildings and walls, York has nothing unique to offer the tourist.

However, I believe buses should be allowed access to the city via this route; perhaps another rising bollard may be called for?

That buses will be delayed by a mere nine seconds by not being able to use this route is fantasy. Added to proposals to close St Leonard's to through-traffic, I should say the council is planning to commit suicide.

Does anyone on the council really have any idea what it is like travelling in York? Does Anne Reid ever need to use a bus?

When I arrived in York seven years ago, our bus services were terrible and got worse.

Things really got bad when the Metro system was introduced.

Now First has a new management team and, on the whole, they have really improved the bus network in York and are striving to make further improvements.

First converted me from a regular complainer in this column to a believer in their efforts.

Now I think the city council should be working with First to improve bus services - not working against them and sabotaging their services.

Dr Richard Greaves,

Morehall Close, York.

...THANK you First buses for your wonderful service No 6. So frequent I don't need a timetable and can leave my car in the garage.

Brian Nye,

Beverley Gardens, York.

Updated: 10:22 Friday, May 28, 2004