IN RELATION to the proposed out-of-town development at Monks Cross (The Press, September 8), we want to explain our position further.

We believe it is misleading to promote this proposal under the guise of the “Community Stadium”.

At a time when all political parties are committed to “saving our high streets”, it is concerning that this development is being encouraged.

More such retail applications are intended for Monks Cross; this is the thin end of the wedge.

Monks Cross threatens the city centre because of: free car parking versus expensive parking in the city; easy car access versus an anti-car policy in the city centre; thousands of free car spaces versus limited facilities in the city; comprehensive shopping at Monks Cross rendering it largely unnecessary to visit York city centre.

These concerns are endorsed by national planning policy guidance.

If the council now recognises York city centre as just “one of the key attractions for visitors”, we would respectfully ask: where are the other such attractions?

The council states that York is “losing its retail market share” when on the same day York is named as one of the best performing retail cities in the UK.

This city is being placed at risk for short-term gain which, even in the short term, is of questionable benefit.

AM Sinclair, Chairman, York Chamber of Trade, Stonegate, York.