System 'beyond belief' (From Gazette Series)

System 'beyond belief'

SIR - The words 'monstrosity' and 'carbuncle' are quoted in the Gazette which is aware of the unusual strength of feeling of the Dursley community against the design and material used for the proposed new library.

It is beyond belief that the planning system is such that the county council can refute a democratic vote by Cam Parish, Dursley Town and Stroud District Councils, especially when the majority of the county planning committee probably never set foot in Dursley except for site inspections.

At the end of the library presentation meeting in Dursley there was a stunned silence, much to the embarrassment of the presenters. From the approximately 35 people present, there was definitely a majority against the plan.

One wonders if Ridge Consultants were made aware that Dursley is a mediaeval town. It is surely ironic on the one hand that vast amounts of money is being spent on The Weaver's House and paving round the town hall and on the other Dursley will look as if it has entered the Space Age.

It is significant that the town festival in July is featuring the Town Heritage Show.

We have inherited the past. We should not deny it. Many county councillors may not be aware of Dursley's past and the strong feeling of resentment felt by the community regarding the decision.

Nobody wants to go to the expense of an appeal adding more to the council tax, but could there be a compromise with a town poll - in the name of democracy?

Dreena Menelaws, Byron Road, Whiteway, Dursley