Sir, – “Northallerton is unique among market towns in North Yorkshire and County Durham in that it doesn’t have a clearly defined heart. Certainly, the town hall and market cross are rather lost in the streetscape ... a more defined town square look to the front of the town hall is very welcome … At present the area is a mess.”

Not my words – in fact, quotes taken directly from a D&S leading article (December 19, 2008).

In recent weeks, the D&S letters pages have included correspondence from the proprietors of a long-established High Street shop who have campaigned against the proposals to enhance the paved area in front of the town hall by inappropriately linking the scheme to the perceived threat to their business due to off-street car parking charges.

Furthermore, unsubstantiated claims have been made regarding the cost and inclusions within the layout of the scheme.

I feel it is now time to redress the balance and explain why the local council is driving the proposals forward, having given all High Street stakeholders information (more than 100 consultation packs delivered by hand to shops).

The project was initiated in 2004 via the Market Towns Renaissance masterplan – long before Hambleton considered offstreet car parking charges. The town square was identified by local people as an area in need of improvement.

Yorkshire Forward provided some funding – ring-fenced for an enhancement project – and together with monies drawn down from other external projects totalling in the order of £70,000.

It is worth noting that there has been no expectation of the town council adding to the sum.

The footprint area will be uncluttered and afford the opportunity for local charities and organisations to host events such as dance, street theatre, band concerts and promotions which should add to the vitality and benefit of the High Street. Improved seating will be incorporated to afford locals and visitors a more welcoming communal area in which to meet.

Finally, the opportunities the enhancement scheme offers to improve the vitality of the town and community ambition are great, albeit at the expense of four parking spaces on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Bear in mind we can assume from a subsequent correspondent (D&S, April 9) that visitors still come to Northallerton in droves and are prepared to fill the meters with coins.

Coun TONY HALL Mayor of Northallerton.