THIS is a copy of a letter I sent to the chairman of East Cambs District Council s environment and transport committee. I think the proposed car park at the cathedral meadow land at Ely is a shocking idea, and I am completely against it. One of the main

THIS is a copy of a letter I sent to the chairman of East Cambs District Council's environment and transport committee.

I think the proposed car park at the cathedral meadow land at Ely is a shocking idea, and I am completely against it.

One of the main things that attracts visitors and shoppers to Ely is its pleasant ambience.

Instead of encouraging cars into the city centre, we should be trying to increase the number of green areas, pedestrian precincts, and car-free zones.

Ely is a growing city, and has the chance to avoid mistakes that larger, more developed cities have made.

The proposed car park lacks imagination and smacks of desperation.

What is wrong with a park-and-ride scheme involving buses or trams on the outskirts of Ely?

Why can't we follow the example set by countries such as Germany, France and Spain where they frequently put car parks underground to preserve areas of natural beauty or historical significance?

Why not introduce something quirky such as a free bike ride scheme?

With the increased prevalence of diabetes - approximately 192 million world-wide - we should be encouraging people to exercise more not less.

Why not develop and exploit Ely's green credentials and use them as selling points?

Why not encourage car-sharing and give incentives to people doing their shopping together? Ely is a great place with tremendous potential. Please do not ruin it.

DR ADRIAN HORGAN

Welland Place

Ely