CAN I make clear the situation with regard to the Foinavon development and the regional government 'call-in' of their plans.

Following the major damage that has been done to once flourishing town centre shops in other towns and cities by retail developments built outside of the main shopping area, such government agencies are required to examine in detail any such developments to ensure that they do not result in a decaying town centre dominated by empty shops.

This examination process happens under existing planning regulations and has existed for several years.

Some years ago another development in Trowbridge was 'called-in' and turned down on these very grounds.

This process is not connected in any way to the Vision for Trowbridge, and predates the development of the Vision.

The South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) have stated categorically that this 'call-on' process is nothing to do with them and that it involves a totally different government body, the Government Office of the South West (GOSW), who have totally different responsibilities from the SWRDA.

I hope this clarifies the whole issue.

G BRIDGES,

Mayor of Trowbridge