MANY people complain about their local council regardless of their political affiliations. I was one of many who said after the last council elections "This lot can't be any worse than the last lot were." Sadly, they are proving everyone wrong.

After their latest decision, clearing land for buildings involving the cutting down of two 150-year-old copper beech trees in Fulford, which can only be described as mindless vandalism, I am now convinced that far from trying to promote York they are intent on destroying it.

I am proud to be able to say that over the past six years I, and the people I have worked with, have been influential in the development of part of this city. To see all that hard work and commitment pulled down around our ears by this council is very hard to bear.

We are now informed that we may see even more parking meters in York centre - this from a council which is reported to have lost £140,000 in parking charges since its changes to the parking regulations.

These new parking meters will have to be purchased, installed and maintained - causing an even heavier drain on the purse of city officials already pleading poverty.

Many businesses have seen a drop in trade in the past six months, and what they need now is support from councillors, not more punishment.

The Liberal Democrats have waited a long time to gain power in York, and I hope they're enjoying it because when the next elections are due, they will be removed from office a lot faster than they got in. Unfortunately for York, by then it may be too late.

John Griffiths,

Head Chef/Partner,

Trickster's Lane,

Fossgate, York.

Updated: 10:31 Thursday, October 07, 2004