THE debate about private car use in York has vexed York's politicians and transport planners for decades.

The gridlock which Coun Simpson-Laing foresees within five years (March 10) has been staved off in the past by a sensible mixture of improved cycling and walking routes for local journeys, plus Park & Ride for longer distance travellers.

Graduated charges still encourage peripheral, rather than central, car parking.

Added to this is the prospect of reopening some local rail stations, plus light rail associated with the York Central development.

In the long term, York's finite road space must be prioritised by congestion charging, reinforced by CCTV cameras and more rising bollards.

This will allow public transport to operate with full efficiency, and greatly improve conditions to walk or cycle.

Motor vehicle use must be restricted to essential rather than preferential use such as disabled drivers, deliveries and servicing.

The user hierarchy must also include car drivers who have a proven need for access, for which "smart card" permits can, perhaps, be issued.

Residents within the walled area, who may need to take their vehicles to the outskirts, must also be helped.

This policy may be anathema to whichever political party has future control in York, but we must bite the bullet if eventual gridlock is to be avoided.

Paul Hepworth,

Windmill Rise,

Holgate,

York.

Updated: 10:11 Monday, March 15, 2004