Congratulations are due to Cllr Kallum Taylor for taking up the issue of maintaining Leeman Road as a through route as part of any so called York Central redevelopment (“NRM urged to rethink plan”, The Press, June 26).

The York Central Partnership has been conspicuously deaf to residents’ concerns in balancing local needs with those of the National Railway Museum.

Any removal of a direct pedestrian/cycle route, particularly outside museum opening hours, will be to the significant detriment of amenity and be a potential safety risk for people late at night having to take a longer and more circuitous route.

In my discussions with representatives of the Partnership it seems foregone that Leeman Road on its present alignment will close and they are oblivious to the requirement for democratic process.

It is good to know our local councillors are now on the case and let us hope this will be a ward issue in next year’s elections with all candidates pledging to keep the road open.

At the same time the ridiculous assumption of the National Railway Museum that in future visitors will come on foot, by bus, train or by bicycle needs to be challenged. Observation of the busy current car park with many families with young children is clear evidence that proximity of ample parking is vital for a successful visitor attraction.

Like the Partnership, the National Railway Museum needs to wake up and far more seriously take note of its neighbours’ views and concerns.

Nicholas Long,

Phoenix Boulevard, York