IN his letter about the Barbican protest, Paul Cordock seems to contradict himself (July 25).

On the one hand, he denigrates Mr Dickinson and Mr and Mrs Wartho because they "do not actually live in the affected area", and on the other, the "pressure group" because they have "the self-interest agenda of a minority" - presumably the 10,000 or so residents who live within walking distance of the Barbican.

I can inform Mr Cordock that Mr and Mrs Wartho and Mr Dickinson were frequent, long-term users of the Barbican, and have been asked by residents to represent them.

Mr and Mrs Wartho particularly represent the over-50s.

Most of the residents of this area are vehemently opposed to a huge late-night drinking establishment in their midst. I know this because I speak to them.

It could perhaps not occur to Mr Cordock that we actually care about our city and our neighbourhood, and what happens in it.

Perhaps he could let us know what possible benefit this huge drinking establishment could offer "most York residents"?

He may also like to consider the financial implications of the lease of a building that cost council taxpayers £14 million for £750,000 for 250 years and no rent?

Local residents are also council taxpayers!

Mr Dickinson, Mr and Mrs Wartho and all other York residents, local or not, have a right, if not a duty, to express their opinions.

Mr Cordock, even though he lives in Strensall, is equally at liberty to support the venture. However, he should not do this by denigrating others and questioning their motives.

The only reason he seems to have for his support is that the council will "divest itself of a liability".

Not much gained if it acquires another one.

P M Blanchard,

Heslington Road,

York.

Updated: 09:38 Monday, August 01, 2005