EVEN after your article the other day, I imagine few of the dog walkers and strollers along the river bank south of Millennium Bridge are aware that half the length of the bank between the bridge and the boat club is intended to be sold or leased to the boat club.

 This area will be fenced off preventing any public access and many trees will be removed to allow floating pontoons for the boats.

This is an area where otters have been seen and is a wildlife haven near to York. Also the present rural view from the bridge will be changed to that of pontoons and plastic boats.

Under the Local Government Act 1972 Section 123 the council stated its policy of encouraging visible and sustained improvements to the rivers to be enjoyed by York’s residents and visitors alike.

How shutting off an existing public space to its residents can be seen to conform to that policy requires a mental leap most people will be unable to make.

Nick Derbyshire, South Esplanade, York.