CITY of York Council's decision to resist Persimmon's bid to build on Bootham Crescent is to be welcomed (December 19).

Unfortunately, it doesn't go far enough. Giving the go-ahead for the demolition of the football ground when planning permission is granted for a replacement would still allow unscrupulous profiteers to renege on their commitments and leave York City homeless.

There should be no planning permission until a suitable replacement is ready for City to move in. The two applications could surely proceed in tandem, with final consent to demolish Bootham Crescent being wholly dependent on the completion of the new stadium.

If that were unacceptable to Mr Craig and other major BCH shareholders, such as Persimmon, they would still have the honourable option of allowing City to remain at Bootham Crescent by selling their shares to the Supporters' Trust at face value. The trust has the confidence of most genuine City fans, and could never close down our club for the personal gain of a few greedy individuals.

One would imagine a York-based company such as Persimmon would be keen to see this issue resolved speedily and fairly, before its reputation is tarnished by this shabby affair.

Frank Ormston,

Waverley Street,

York.

...THE Bootham Crescent Holdings (BCH) statement yesterday reads, "BCH were unable to carry on supporting its loss-making subsidiary".

Who ran this 'loss-making subsidiary' for the last ten years? - yes, the directors of BCH. Who separated the main asset of this 'loss-making subsidiary' into the control of their own company? - again, the directors of BCH.

Who stands to gain most by the removal of this 'loss-making subsidiary' - why, those same directors of BCH. Who stands to lose most by the demise of this 'loss-making subsidiary' - well, it's us. The fans and people of York, but the big difference is, we call it our football club.

Andy Hird,

St Olaves Road, York.

...I REFER to Section 4 of the joint Bootham Crescent Holdings and Persimmon statement published in the Evening Press, part of which states: "BCH and Persimmon are still willing to try to help save YCFC".

If so, the solution is clear and simple - sell Bootham Crescent to the club at a sensible price.

Dave Lilley,

Lady Road, York.

Updated: 10:38 Tuesday, December 24, 2002