After much debate and intimidation from the FRAG group, councillors have democratically voted for the Wiltshire Structure Plan, which involves the building on land called the Front Garden.

I completely agree with the decision on the basis that if building thousands of houses is ordained to be necessary by the Government then every sector of the town should carry its share.

There are no real alternatives to using edge of town sites if the large scale development envisaged by Government is to be realised. However, any suitable brownfield sites should be developed before any greenfield sites are destroyed.

It is my opinion that growth for its own sake is not what this town needs.

Councillors want city status as an image thing. But a city requires all sorts of amenities, such as a transport system that does not close down at the weekend, a good library and a decent theatre.

A lot of people came to Swindon to get away from city conglomerates. A lot of businesses came for similar reasons. Big is not always better but it is always expensive and congested.

E J BAILEY

Forum Close, Stratton St Margaret