Sir, –In reply to Mr Ward’s letter (D&S, April 17) I would like to say that of course I haven’t forgotten the footpath needed on Cravengate, Richmond.

Those paths highlighted in my original letter (Scotton, Bellerby etc) are footpaths that local communities have been requesting for over 30 years and I was voicing my disappointment that they had been overlooked in favour of an upgrade to existing pathways between the Garrison and Richmond – incorporating, it is true, a safer bridle and cycle way.

Mr Ward is quite right – the Tory executive at County Hall is prevaricating. Promises were made that the Cravengate footpath was to be installed between Newbiggin and Culloden Mews following the installation of the traffic calming measures.

Coun Parsons was re-assured as recently as six months ago that this was still the case.

But, unfortunately, the rules have changed yet again and this scheme now has to fight it out in another set of scoring rounds to see if it is acceptable.

We will continue to campaign for the Cravengate footpath. It is much needed but it is still missing out on funding because it, like so many other schemes, falls foul of political influences creating a system where apparently the most deserving cases don’t seem get the go ahead, because the goal posts have yet again moved.

I strongly believe that the best option is for local people to make their views known via their local councillors and both Coun Parsons and I are happy to hear from residents who want to join the campaign for safer places for pedestrians.

Coun LINDA CURRAN DL Wellington Place, Richmond