I HAVE read with interest the letters regarding parking problems in Northallerton particularly with the imminent arrival of the police from Newby Wiske Hall.

Have we all missed the fact that there is a car park not five minutes’ walk from the proposed police headquarters.

Where you may ask?

Well it is Crosby Road car park behind the old fire station.

This holds 228 car parking spaces. I have been passed the car park twice this week and it was virtually empty, even today on Market Day in the town.

So, what is the problem?

Yes, the staff may have to pay, but as your correspondents have previously said the hospital staff have to as well and other workers in Northallerton.

The car park is not too far from County Hall where they are building a new car park when this one lies empty most days.

It would mean a ten minute walk, but would save losing green space to car parking.

Surely the district council can come to some agreement with the police, and perhaps the county council, on charges.

Perhaps an annual fee for staff at a reduced rate?

Let’s utilize our unused resources to the full before we build more car parking areas. As another of your correspondents’ said the prison site would also make an ideal car park for many facilities and work places in the town.

Do we really need more shops when some lie empty in the High Street including the former Marks and Spencer store?

Do we really need a fivescreen cinema when we have already got an excellent multi-use entertainment centre at the Forum? Do we really need another hotel in the town when there is adequate provision already?

Come on let’s think outside the box as they say.

L Ward, Romanby