SIR: I read with interest your article: 100 face jobs chop (BEN, March 11). Over the last few years the appearance of retail parks and food store developments in our locality has been phenomenal.
Both my husband and I are employed on the Hipwood & Grundy site and I feel sure you can understand my concern at the threat of both of us facing the possibility of losing our jobs.
I do not think that the councillors and developers who back this plan have taken into consideration the full effect it will have on the residents and the people who are already in full time employment on this site.
As mentioned in your article, this site is ideal for transport companies, not having to pass any residential property. If the development goes ahead, experts estimate that at peak times there will be at least 300 vehicles per hour entering and exiting the site. If, in reality, it is only half this amount, it still greatly exceeds the present volume of traffic.
I do not feel that the voice of the local people is being heard. Having been present at the recent site visit by the councillors, it was obvious that the decision to develop the area had already been made. The councillors did not inspect any of the sites, they just stood on Old Hall Street. When faced with questions and objections, they left. I feel the visit was just a token gesture.
A Barlow
Victory Road
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