IT was with disappointment but not surprise that the decision of the board of directors of TEWV was to discount the vote of the people of York to retain Bootham Park Hospital.

Of course we recognise that refurbishment of the hospital would have some challenges, but contend that this would have been both possible and worthwhile in order to retain this uniquely beautiful building dedicated for 200 years to the care of people needing mental health services.

Unlike many other facilities, the position of the hospital is central and not hidden away as are many psychiatric hospitals.

Bootham Park met all the criteria required and offered people a tranquil environment with easy access for relatives and friends.

The people of York were asked to state a preference from a list of three sites. They chose Bootham Park, a choice which was ignored. What therefore was the purpose of the consultation?

Members of Mental Health Action York attended every consultation meeting and it was obvious to us that managers representing TWEV did not favour the refurbishment of Bootham Park.

Let us be clear the money raised from the sale of Bootham Park will not go to local mental health services but will be absorbed into a national budget.

Let us hope that sufficient numbers of beds and properly trained and experienced staff will be in place to meet their needs.

Mental Health Action York will continue to campaign for excellence in local mental health services and against further privatisation of our NHS.

Ann Weerakoon, On behalf of Mental Health Action York, Fulford Park House, Fulford York