The best solution?

From Mr Bill Iveson, committee member of Save Our Unique Landmark (SOUL) SIR We write in response to the letter from Mgr John McManus, Vicar General of the Diocese of Shrewsbury (Letters, September 17).
Can we firstly say that it is very sad that correspondence is now being conducted in the press.
Mgr McManus states: "Bishop Brian Noble has not misled anyone at any time." A letter dated April 30 2007 signed by Bishop Noble states: "The trustees have taken the decision to close the church in two years time. Mass will continue to be celebrated in the church until then." Minutes from the Historic Churches Commission have the date of closure stated as April 2009.
"The diocese did not mislead the Vatican": Mgr McManus fails to explain how the Vatican wrote to parishioners in May 2008 saying: "The bishop has advised he has no current plans to close the church of SS Peter and Paul."
A further letter from the Vatican, dated July 17 2008, states: "This [notice of closure] appears to stand in direct contrast to the recent indication that there are no plans to close the church communicated to this dicastery by His Lordship "This was discussed with the parish priest, the parish finance committee and other parishioners, who were in agreement": The finance committee is a twoman body nominated by the parish priest. How were the "other parishioners" selected?
Parishioners voted 57 per cent to retain and re-order the present church, 26 per cent for a new Catholic church. With just 17 per cent for other options, which included using a church of another denomination. Mgr McManus's letter sets out to justify the decision of the bishop and trustees. His response shows no concern for parishioners. Last weekend's Mass attendance showed a drop from 400 in 2006 down to less than 100. Is this "the best solution for the people of the parish"?
Yours faithfully BILL IVESON Wallasey, Merseyside