RE the report (The Bolton News, July 25), on yob problems around Birtenshaw Special School.

May I state that I do not condone vandalism in any shape or form.

I do, however, wish to comment on Michelle Hinselwood’s complaint of damage being caused “and the impact on local residents”.

No such concern was extended to the occupants of a hitherto quiet area when a dwelling was acquired by the school for overnight residential purposes (removing the garage in the process), employing a rota system of carers using the required transport, creating parking problems. In my book, this is a change of use which has devalued the surrounding properties.

I quote “the people involved either do not know or do not care” could easily be said of the school’s hierarchy who, without consultation with those affected, quietly acquired this bungalow.

Birtenshaw School was well supported by the community when it was housed in its former stone building, but those now in charge have gone a step too far in expanding into the “out districts”.

Also, not to mention the ugly building foisted on to land which was protected by policies of green belt, a lung between two conurba- tions and a legally binding and enforceable covenant (court judgement). Planners and decision makers, please remove your rose coloured spectacles. Look after the council tax payers already in situ as your policy document decrees.

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