CHRISTOPHER Leeman believes removing Water End’s cycle lane would magically “unblock traffic” and end rat-running on Westminster Avenue (Letters, May 24).

He looks to the new Labour administration to wave a magic wand and create the commuter paradise seen on TV car adverts. Sadly, the reality is different.

York’s transport planners have to look 20 years or more into the future and avoid predicted future gridlock. Their advice goes to councillors regardless of which party is in control.

All councils must prepare a local transport plan (LTP), in accordance with Whitehall guidelines. York’s LTP sets out the transport policies and measures that will contribute to the city’s economic prosperity over this timescale, while meeting challenging targets for reducing emissions. It aims to significantly reduce car dependency. This can be achieved in part by giving artificial priority to bus and cycle lanes.

So Water End’s cycle facilities will increasingly contribute to the encouragement of pedal power for short journeys. Hence more space on the roads for those who need to use a car.

The 60 per cent of commuters who drive five miles or less into York might examine their consciences, and consider other means.

Paul Hepworth, Windmill Rise, York.

• I WOULD like to say how impressed I am with James Alexander.

My letter was published on Tuesday and I received a very constructive phone call from Mr Alexander at 8.55am the same day, telling me that the two points I had raised in the letter would be dealt with. To a satisfactory conclusion, I may add.

Of all the letters I have written to The Press, this is the only one to earn a direct reply.

I am not a political animal, and this letter will not detract from me pursuing Mr Alexander and his party, should I disagree with any of their decisions or actions.

Christopher R Leeman, Bouthwaite Drive, York.