It seems York's parking charges are always going to be controversial.

Having lived in the USA for some time, I believe a compromise could exist.

Over here, businesses regularly "validate" parking tickets which allow customers the first one or two hours city centre parking free.

Something similar could be adopted in York whereby the businesses in question would reimburse customers for the hour or two, on average, that they spend at the restaurant, and then the council would reimburse the restaurant once relevant paperwork, and proof, has been filed.

This way diners don't feel abused by the system and if they stay in the city longer, it hasn't cost as much.

I love your website and visit it every day to stay in touch with home.

Allan Phillips,

Ash Park Lane,

Boise, Idaho,

USA.

Updated: 09:54 Friday, August 27, 2004