I'M sure campaigners for Coate are not attempting to redefine the meaning of the word democracy.

People signing the petition are aware that it is a request for a 1 km buffer around the country park.

While multi storey car parks are not (yet) planned for the lake, it is quite reasonable to assume that the five storey buildings and student dwellings, that are planned, right next to the nature reserve are not exactly going to enhance it or encourage wildlife.

A democracy is in fact "a government by the people or their elected representatives". This means that the council has a duty to listen to, and represent, the people. It does not mean that once elected, they can ignore informed public protest.

J REEVES

Swindon