THE sudden forced closure of Bootham Park psychiatric unit is a challenge for everyone involved (The Press, September 26).

The knock-on effect of the sudden closure of several wards must send ripples throughout Great Britain.

Huge efforts are being made to relocate patients and distribute staff where they are needed, but at what pressure to an already stressed service?

Let us hope it can be used as an opportunity to sell off the beautiful white elephant, with its stained-glass windows and gracious assembly hall, all designed more than two centuries ago to lift the spirits and soothe and inspire.

Let that become the prestigious hotel or flats people will appreciate, while a safe, up-to-date, people-friendly and energy-efficient building takes its place.

Let us pester the Government and local benefactors to seize the moment and inject the cash needed. York needs its own local provision, for the sake of the service-users and providers.

During eight years’ contact with Bootham Park, I found the atmosphere always serene and optimistic.

The mental health care we have received was second to none. We must fight to retain it.

Our ancestors did us proud. Now that their building is outdated, let us try to match them.

F M Simpson, Enfield Crescent, York

 

WE see now that the old hospital at Bootham Park has been deemed unfit to work in (The Press, September 26).

A check was being made and part of a ceiling collapsed. Good place for this to happen, when it’s being inspected.

This now is a prime example of letting this type of building fall to pieces.

The chance now is there for the building of houses on the old Bootham Park. You have only to go around and see the vast space there is for houses.

We know there is a shortage of affordable houses. You could build these type of houses and, dare one say it, council houses.

Tom Mitchell, Mendip Close, Huntington, York

 

READING the latest on Bootham Park (The Press, September 26) and issues facing those at the top, I cannot but feel some compassion.

It’s one thing after another and when our NHS is in crisis we appear to always blame those at the top. In many cases, it is the never ending story of constant issues with services.

If we could just stop looking for someone to blame within the NHS, if everyone worked together and tried to be forward focused instead of being divided, I reckon some of our problems may have a better result.

Bootham Park did at one time serve its community well and was a sanctuary for many as a drop-in, but we have moved on and new accommodation is required.

Buildings don’t last for ever, but don’t forget the achievements for many at Bootham Park in the past. It’s a very challenging time for those at the helm to keep our services going. Some support from the community would be very welcome.

Keith Chapman, Custance Walk, York