I REFER to your article regarding the traders of Havelock Street and Morley Street, and Westfield's lack of interest in meeting the traders' representatives. Does the big giant think it can ride roughshod over the little shops?

I have written to the council objecting to this proposed plan for the simple reason that we will lose so many independent shops. Has anyone realised just how many are involved? Apart from Maguire's the only independent and last remaining butcher's shop we will also lose two cafes, independent travel agents, a sewing shop, etc.

Has anyone noticed how many vacant shops there are in the Brunel Centre? How can Westfield think it will let out any more space if it can't let what it already has?

What small business owner in his or her right mind would pay high rents with no guaranteed increase in turnover.

CAROLANNE BOND

Welcome Avenue, Swindon