It is my understanding that the Straymaster, and consequently The Freemen of York, are not averse to Monk Stray being used for occasional events (Who are they?, Letters, May 21).

However, they were not advised of the extent of the licence requested by City of York Council prior to its submission. The licence seeks approval, 365 days a year, for some 20 or more types of event. The council apparently did not have the time, or energy, to be selective, so “ticked all the boxes”.

I am also excluded from objection by the “vicinity” rule, which is not defined but an arbitrary decision by council officials, although excess traffic on the Malton Road has a severe impact on ingress to and egress from the only access point to this estate. The council has failed for many years to keep the hedge on the side of Malton Road in good condition and block the many gaps forced through, other than by erecting some insecure barriers. Increased use of the Stray will only aggravate this problem.

Perhaps the council should consider better maintenance before looking for another income stream, which can only adversely affect the quiet pleasure which the Stray brings to many.

John Tasker, The Crossway, Muncaster, York.