The National Railway Museum has been accused of ‘arrogance’ and a ‘lack of vision’ over its expansion plans.
Angry residents have been commenting on the scheme as a fund to challenge it in the courts approaches £6,000.
The crowdfunding campaign is to cover legal expenses to challenge City of York Council’s decision to grant the NRM permission to build its controversial new central hall across Leeman Road.
Many feel the planned ‘public walkway’ is inadequate.
Supporters have demonstrated their anger at the plans with comments such as:
“COYC have a track record of putting commercial business before the needs of residents, this particular decision needs challenging and overturning”
“Unacceptable arrogance of NRM & City Council, appalling!”
“I am disappointed in the lack of vision shown by The National Railway Museum. You would have thought that a National Science Museum could have come up with a creative solution other than just trampling over the wishes of the local residents.”
“Love NRM but feel current management are arrogant. How can you demand closure of a public road because of whose existence many residents will have purchased properties over the years?”
Bowled over
St Peter’s Quarter resident Paul Clarke, who is leading the legal challenge on behalf of local people, said: “It is clear from the comments we’re received that residents of York are sick of being ignored by the council’s planning process.
“Too often commercial interests are put before the local community. This has to change.”
He thanked everyone who had donated so far.
“We’re bowled over at the generosity of local people and heartened by the support being shown.
“The funds raised to date will cover the cost of sending the pre-action letter, which begins the legal process for a judicial review.”
That letter has already been sent to the City of York Council which is legally bound to reply.
“The next step will be to reach our stretch target of £30,000, enabling us to take the case to a judicial review in court,” Dr Clarke said.
“If our claim succeeds and we are awarded costs, we may be able to return funds to anyone making a significant donation.”
You can find out more about the Justice For Leeman Road campaign and donate here.
We asked National Railway Museum to comment but a spokesperson said they don’t have anything to add at this stage.