YOUR editorial supporting radical traffic solutions is echoed by the letter from Richard Lane calling for bold new ideas. I disagree. It is unfettered radical and bold initiatives that have got us into this mess.

The chronic congestion we experience is largely self-inflicted with excessive restrictions which impede vehicles rather than allowing them to get across the city.

People are not driving into town for fun. They are trying to get somewhere. Blocking their path with one-way systems, closures, chicanes and traffic lights forever on red is doing more harm than good. The answer is to sweep away the negativity and look to positive thinking. Unlock the stranglehold and let the traffic flow.

No one is suggesting a free-for-all or unrestricted parking. Just a fresh approach to facilitate the movement of vehicles instead of the failed policy of imposing ever-more restrictions in the hope that the traffic will eventually disappear. It won’t.

Matthew Laverack, Architect of this parish, Lord Mayor’s Walk, York.