RE: The York, The Groves, (Experimental) Traffic Regulation Order. May I remind people wishing to object to the indefinite continuation off this order that they need to do so by May 24 in writing to the Assistant Director of Economy and Place, City of York Council, West Offices, Station Rise, York, YO1 6GA.

The Council over-rode valid objections for not making the order in the first place:-

1 It leads to a net increase in greenhouse gases, as motorists must use more fuel to follow long diversionary routes.

2 It forces more traffic past many more homes and businesses than in The Groves

3 It increases traffic on Clarence Street, Lord Mayors Walk and Monkgate, which are all ready over-loaded, and increases delays

4 And the council were made aware that emergency ambulances went via The Groves but they can't now. So now casualties in a huge swathe of the city are put at risk due to longer response times.

In my opinion, the council's case is based on false premises. Protagonists claim that The Groves suffered from traffic pollution. But The Groves are subject to a 7-5 tonne gvw prohibition, so heavy polluting vehicles were banned. They complained about excessive traffic speeds and the risk of accidents. Neither claim were substantiated.

The scheme is discriminatory. Now, no traffic passes Park Grove School, but there is an extra 98% passing St Wilfred's Catholic School on Monkgate and more alarmingly 142 per cent pass Haxby Road Primary Academy.

Anyone who is concerned about climate change, the wellbeing of others and the health and safety of school children is urged to write to the council now.

Ian Salmons,

Heworth,

York