ON November 26, you published an article based on a report on Bolton's historic environment, presented to the Environment and Direct Services Scrutiny Committee that day.

I am writing to express regret that the article and photographs juxtaposed two derelict buildings (the cottage at Smithills and a house on Blackburn Road) with Falcon Mill. The article, which concerned Listed Buildings that are "at risk" of deterioration, could be read to imply that all of the above buildings were in a similarly bad state of repair, which is certainly not the case.

The Council has assessed all the Listed Buildings in Bolton and identified a number as being in need of repair and being at risk. There are, however, a number of categories of risk. Some buildings are empty and derelict and will need urgent action. Others, however, may only be showing early signs of needing attention. This latter group may not need any urgent action by the Local Authority other than regular monitoring and advice to owners on potential sources of funding. Falcon Mill, on Handel Street, pictured in your article, is one of these buildings. It was taken over by the present owner nine years ago and an extensive rolling programme of repairs is going on.

A prime purpose of compiling a Buildings at Risk Register is to highlight the need for investment in the upkeep of Listed Buildings. One aim is to find new owners and uses for vacant and derelict buildings. The conversion of the Eagley Mills complex into residential apartments is a good example of this. Another aim is to publicise the need for external funding to assist the owners of occupied buildings with their maintenance, particularly large industrial buildings such as Falcon Mill which are such an important element of Bolton's heritage.

Richard Cowley

Deputy Director of Environment

Bolton Metro