The issue of the proposed development of Swindon's 'Front Garden' continues to be debated and the time when a final decision is to be taken draws ever closer.

Many points have been raised both for and against the development but there is another aspect to which I would like to draw attention the area on the south side of the M4 motorway, opposite the Front Garden, which is a designated 'area of outstanding natural beauty'.

In order to fully appreciate the wonderful views, it is necessary to have a vantage point and one of the best places to see the beauty of the surroundings is from the old railway path which runs along the northern edge of the Front Garden.

This path has been excellently developed and maintained by the borough council to encourage its use not only as a leisure facility but as a connection between Old Town and West Swindon and is available to thousands of people who may access it on foot. (We are constantly being asked to think of the environment and leave the car at home).

The prospect of looking over a vast acreage of roofing would seriously detract from the enjoyment of the facility as the Front Garden area is a contributory factor in relation to the area of outstanding natural beauty.

I am not advocating that the development is just put elsewhere, but that the borough council looks again at the housing requirement in the light of revised Government figures.

Future generations would surely condemn us if this development is allowed to take place without fully exploring the alternatives, for the sake of short term financial gain.

Some things are priceless.

SHEILA BUTTERS

Tithe Barn Crescent

Swindon