I WAS mildly opposed to the changes to parking charges but, because I normally cycle in and out of York, I thought the move to discourage the use of cars in the city was necessary. I have, however, changed my mind.

On Thursday, July 2 I had arranged to meet a friend after work for a meal and to see a film at City Screen.

I work in Selby so I arranged to leave work at 4.30pm, normally more than enough time for me to drive home, collect my bike and cycle into town. Unfortunately, I was foiled by an accident on the junction of the A19 and A64 so I was forced to take my car into the Castle car park.

I was appalled to discover that my evening out was going to double in price. I had to pay for four hours parking.

As a resident I find a charge of £5.20 added to my costs unacceptable.

It would be interesting to find out how much business York restaurants, the theatres, City Screen and other city centre entertainment venues have lost because of the increased charges.

I should also like to know how much of the money collected is accounted for by the costs of employing extra people to check all the car parks and streets after 6pm.

Margaret A John,

Southbank Avenue, York.

Updated: 10:59 Thursday, September 09, 2004