I WOULD like to add my support to your readers who have demonstrated their disapproval at City of York Council’s intention to sell off the Union Terrace car and coach park.

The car park serves the Bootham Conservative Club and the Clarence Club, both located in Clarence Street. I fear that removing close proximity parking will sound the death knell for these establishments. There are numerous groups, teams and associations that utilise these venues, but they will be forced to seek alternatives if they are unable to park within a reasonable distance of their club. Once membership and guest numbers fall, the University of York St John will have two more prospective locations to swallow up. However, the community will have lost two long-standing social institutions.

David Cox, Beckfield Lane, Acomb, York.

• I WISH to express my concerns about the plans to sell the Union Terrace coach and car park to the University of York St John. The actions of Coun James Alexander are the polar opposite of the Government’s “Start Up Britain” message. I am looking to start up a company that needs retail premises. We have found the rents in the centre of the city prohibitive, and landlords unwilling to give start-up businesses a chance. So I looked to Gillygate which offers us a chance – lower rents and a collective of independent businesses. The closure of Union Terrace worries me and further reduces my chance of success.

I have written to Coun Alexander and MP Julian Sturdy to ask that these plans are reconsidered, based on the detrimental effect it will have on the traders of Gillygate. I encourage other to do everything they can to support the street. It is part of something that makes York special and unique. It’s a place where independent businesses, pushed out of the city centre can set up and offer something different. So lets make sure our voices are not ignored!

Julian Merritt, Beech Grove, Upper Poppleton, York