It is very disappointing that Absolute Leisure have backed out of their deal with City of York Council to revamp the auditorium at the Barbican site (York Barbican Centre dream in tatters, January 12).

One can not help thinking, of course, that, were it not for the obstructive and politically motivated campaign of Ernie Dickinson and his SOB, things could have been very different.

The more favourable economic climate three or four years ago, plus a smoother transaction, would have meant that by now we could be well on the way to a new improved Barbican.

I see that Mr Dickinson has now created a new protest group, the Barbican Association. I dare say that, however City of York Council now proceed in this matter, they will be delayed and obstructed at every step by the newly formed “BAs” – expect yet more mud-slinging and unfounded legal challenges.

It is ironic that Mr Dickinson, as a Labour supporter, should see himself as a saviour of the Barbican. Wasn’t it his party which, when it last ran the council, was responsible for the neglect and waste surrounding the Barbican which resulted in their decision to sell and redevelop the site in the first place?

Richard Brown, Horseman Avenue, Copmanthorpe, York.


• I am sure that the failure of Absolute Leisure to pay the £3 million into a secure account for the refurbishment of the Barbican, does not come as a surprise to the majority of business people in York.

The majority of businesses require bank finance to fund deals like this, and it is well documented by the media that banks are not lending at the moment.

Under the circumstances, Absolute Leisure and City of York Council are victims of the credit crunch, which neither could have forseen when they agreed this deal. It is therefore not a reflection of the Lib Dems alleged mishandling of the sale, just a timing issue, caused mainly by the Save Our Barbican (SOB) group.

If SOB had not delayed the process by approximately three years, then it is possible Absolute Leisure may not only have had the auditorium refurbished and open for business by now, but, in addition, York could also have had a new pool on the Kent Street site. The delay also resulted in reduction of the sales proceeds, which meant the pool could not be afforded. The question everyone is asking is, what will happen to the auditorium now? My guess is that the council will look for a buyer, but, in this climate any offers will be thin on the ground, and will be opportunistic in the extreme.

It will probably just lie derelict and burn council taxpayers’ money at £4,000 a month for the business rates, and continue to deteriorate and depreciate. Things could have been so different, had it not been for the actions of the small group of self-interested individuals, who caused this SOB story.

Paul S Cordock, Durlston Drive, Strensall, York.