Sir – I am writing regarding the city council’s current consultation on a new housing development in Barton.

Many local residents oppose the plan to build 1,000 dwellings on land between Barton and the A40.

The city council’s consultation documents suggest that the development will benefit the residents of Barton through improved facilities.

However, Barton already benefits from an excellent community centre, a swimming pool and leisure centre, allotments and shops, as well as a primary school and good public transport.

It also benefits from being a relatively small and friendly community and has already received regeneration funding.

In addition, the lives of those living on the estate are significantly enhanced by its proximity to the countryside. There is no capacity to cope with increased traffic or the significant disruption that will take place during construction.

It has been disappointing to see some spokespeople for the community support this development. The council’s documentation is well-presented and covers many areas of concern, and I am impressed by their efforts to consult residents.

However, there are a number of people who challenge the basic premise that this development will be good for Barton.

Councillors have admitted that they are keen to push ahead with this development because the proposed development at Grenoble Road has stalled.

One can’t help wondering whether the council were hoping that the lower levels of educational achievement in the area which they highlight in their documentation would mean residents would be less likely to challenge their assumptions.

Anne Orgée (Mrs) Oxford