WHAT will City of York Council dream up next to eradicate professional sport in our city (Fans’ parking at stadium could cost £10, February 27)?

In my opinion, the council decided to build a much-needed new stadium at the wrong location.

The rugby league team struggled for years at an out-of-town ground to survive, before enjoying a very successful move to Bootham Crescent.

Cllr Peter Dew says we may have to be prepared to accept a £10 charge to park our cars or alternatively use public transport.

Fans travel from many different areas of the county to support the teams. Public transport cannot accommodate the various kick off and final whistle times.

Try telling 800 fans from Darlington to come on public transport. It will not work. Away fans don’t travel by rail to the same extent as in yesteryear.

The plan clearly shows a complete lack of knowledge of how today’s fans commute.

A reasonable charge would be acceptable but not the amount suggested.

Without a change of heart the proposal may destroy the main purpose of the new stadium before it is even open.

While I admire the commitment our elected councillors provide, I cannot accept this represents the views of passionate sports supporters.

If you understand our game you are completely offside.

Unfortunately I feel the decision may have already been made.

Ken Thorpe,

Upper Poppleton, York

Many supporters will vote with their feet

THE announcement that car parking at the new stadium is to cost £10 (The Press, February 27) is another excuse to boycott the venue.

When the football club were looking for a new home they obviously didn’t do their homework.

Surely a discussion on parking for supporters should have been part of the original negotiations?

Many years ago York’s rugby league team had to leave Clarence Street and moved to Ryedale - crowds fell by about 75 per cent. Since moving back into the city the crowds have flocked back.

Now the two clubs are to move onto the outskirts of the city again without any thought for how their supporters will get there.

Admission cost plus car parking will take the figure close to £30.

Many supporters will vote with their feet and simply stay away. Public transport will not be able to cope - 2,000 supporters leaving the stadium will require in excess of 30 buses to transport supporters to the city centre to enable them to catch buses to their own areas of the city.

With Vangarde announcing a two-hour time limit on free parking on match days the businesses will see a reduction in footfall, in turn they will be seeking a reduction in their rent/rates - another loser.

The venue is already destined to be a ‘White Elephant’.

S Atkinson,

Hamilton Drive,

Holgate, York