I DISAGREE with J Brewer's view that because village stations were closed about 40 years ago they would only operate at their former level of use if re-opened (Letters, September 14).

Strensall, Haxby and Copmanthorpe areas have undergone huge development with most of housing post-dating the closure of the stations.

One only has to see the traffic volumes at morning and evening rush hour to realise these areas are dormitories for a great number of people working in York and beyond.

However, those taking the bus to commute will always have a slower journey than a car-user. In the case of Strensall, a passenger boarding at the terminus (near the old station) has the prospect of the bus stopping at eight stops serving the village and Army camp, the drivers' time spent collecting fares. It is feasible that, were a station to open, a train passenger could be at York Station as the bus is finally leaving Strensall.

Ideally, those using the stations should be encouraged, if able, to walk to and from them to reap the health benefits of a brisk daily walk. Less road traffic and rush-hour bus crowding would also result in better bus travel for those making local journeys.

Keith Wellburn,

The Village,

Strensall, York.

Updated: 10:37 Thursday, September 19, 2002