GIVEN the previously disgusting state of some of the city centre bus shelters and seats after use by tramps and winos as beds and toilets, the city council deserves praise for the cost-effective way in which the problem has been tackled by the addition of a few simple bars on the seats.

Not only will these bars dissuade individuals from sleeping in these shelters, but they are a useful aid to the elderly and infirm to assist them in sitting down and getting back up again when using the seats and shelters for the purpose that they are provided.

So a petition of over 5,000 is calling for the removal of these bars.

Given that the individuals using these seats as beds and toilets choose not to engage with the support services and facilities the council and other agencies provide, I would ask those campaigners to consider the genuine users of the shelters and seats.

If the petitioners still have concerns then perhaps a few of them would like to start a rota and clean the mess up every morning or, better still, as there are 13 identified rough sleepers why not offer them a bed for the night?

Cllr Mark Warters, Independent councillor for Osbaldwick & Derwent Ward, City of York Council

 

IF the 5,000 who signed a petition (Letters, July 21) gave a room to those on the streets, we would end the problem overnight.

If those who signed would send me their details, I will make up a list of persons who would allow a bedroom to become available.

David Wardell, Malton Road, York

 

IN response to DM Deamer’s letter (The Press, July 23), putting teardrop edges to the ramp to the Minster to stop skateboarding has no relevance to the homeless.

Skateboarding is a choice, homelessness is a way of life.

DM Deamer says “give them a spare bedroom or shed” – would you have someone you don’t know the background of staying in your home?

The council admitted they put the bars on the seats to stop homeless people sleeping there. People are fighting for the rights of the homeless. They are against the council for doing it.

The bars stop people moving up for more people to sit down. How do the bars help the old and infirm?

Wojciech Simpson, Chestnut Grove, New Earswick