Sir – We appreciate that during this period of recession Oxford City Council has similar challenges to businesses in trying to balance its budget. However, only last year just prior to the downturn in the economy, they achieved a healthy increase in income from rents in the Covered Market, forcing at least one long-established tenant to downsize.

The news that the council is now going back on its commitment to invest just £50,000 back into the fabric of the Covered Market beggars belief. Apart from the clear need for improvements within the market, the council’s decision sends out completely the wrong message about its concern for the prosperity of its own city. Come on city council, think again!

Graham Jones, For ROX – Rescue Oxford