Outcry as axe hangs over York city centre children's rides

The seasonal attractions in Parliament Street, which have entertained children for nearly 20 years over the Christmas and summer holidays, have been put under review as part of proposed changes to the city centre.

But Coun Brian Watson claimed council officers were caving in to pressure from nearby stores.

"The fair is the last remaining street entertainment for children, and this is a pure case of profit overtaking pleasure," he said.

"I remember the times when there were about 20 Father Christmas helpers in the market place, but now we struggle to find one.

"It really is about time our shops entered into the Christmas spirit."

John Warrington, who has provided the fairground rides in Parliament Street for 18 years, said he was told by city centre managers that they were now in jeopardy.

"I want to find out what has gone wrong if anything," he told the Evening Press.

"We've had a very good relationship with the council over the years."

But council leader Steve Galloway said no decision had yet been made.

"Any proposed change would be debated publicly," he said.

"In the meantime the existing programmes, remain in place.

"It is entirely correct that the variety of attractions on offer in the Parliament Street area should be reviewed from time to time and we would expect to do so in consultation with residents and the business community.

"There may be exciting events available to fill this space in the future and these alternatives will be assessed as and when they become options."

He said a report would be placed before the council's executive next month regarding the development of a formal city centre partnership and the appointment of a new officer to promote the area.

"It is hoped that such an appointment will generate lots of new ideas about how the city can be promoted and how the variety of events that happen in the central area can be enhanced to everyone's benefit," he said.

Updated: 11:25 Tuesday, March 29, 2005