THE idea of an underground car park by Clifford's Tower is a non-starter given the reduction in spaces and the engineering works that would be necessary for a structure of this type so close to the River Foss.

The loss of much-needed parking to the archaeological dig would be enough of a disruption.

A more sensible solution would be to provide sufficient parking at the southern end of Piccadilly and the modification of the Piccadilly-Fishergate junction.

This facility could also, in theory, provide necessary parking for the two hotels close by.

Car parking at that location would probably be cheaper, would not disfigure the area around the Castle for such a long period and would not take up space that could be used for retail or other commercial purposes.

Would it then not be more practicable to combine the Castle and Castle Mills car parks at Piccadilly and further develop the Castle Mills site for recreational use?

Karl A Tumman,

Back Lane,

Leavening,

Malton.

Updated: 09:52 Friday, July 29, 2005