WITH regard to the letter from A R Partridge (EA April 26) complaining that Swindon people are anti-green because among other things, some residents are opposing the plans to build a football stadium and speedway track and other buildings on the old Shaw tip.

I am one of those people and the opposite is the truth.

Does Mr Partridge know that Shaw Tip has been designated as part of the Great Western Forest and Country Park since 1994 and that, thanks to Government and wildlife charity investment, there are already 46,000 trees planted on the site.

Many of them were planted by local people on the regular planting days held until this winter. Many people planted trees in memory of loved ones on the understanding that this was to be a country park and forest for the benefit of future generations so that they would have a place to enjoy in the middle of the town. The trees are thriving and so is the wildlife, at the moment, but what plans does STFC and St Modwen have? To rip it all up.

Think again Mr Partridge, the people opposing this plan are trying to save an already established reclaimed brownfield site for the countryside.

We are all for open spaces for the community to enjoy.

Maybe when the land has settled and more topsoil put there, the local youngsters will be able to have football pitches and cricket fields there, so that we can all enjoy both the open space, the forest and the wildlife together in one haven.

We are definitely pro-green.

(Mrs) S E LAZARIDES

Horseshoe Crescent

Peatmoor, Swindon