\WITH reference to the re the planning application for a stable block on the land behind Boot Lane, known as the Delph, which was deferred by the council on October 23, on on the grounds of being considered too large: "as large as many houses,in area and height" and an "inappropriate development within the green belt" (Focus magazine October 24)

Once again, Bolton council get it badly wrong. Not many yards away is a new housing estate. It is the same piece of land, sold off in separate plots. So how is it that permission is refused to build ONE stone stable block, in keeping with the rural surroundings, and granting TWENTY houses that not in keeping with the area.

Once again, that old chestnut, "the green belt" was brought out at the meeting, and, as always, when it suits Bolton council to do so it was decided that a stable block was an "inappropriate development within the green belt." The land all around Boot Lane is farm land, the farm has been modified into houses.

I feel the Focus magazine is responsible for much of the ill feeling towards the owners of the land, John and Suzanne Court. They have worked tirelessly and lovingly on this land, yet when I suggested to Cllr Roger Heyes that he described all the improvements that had been made in the next Focus, he did not.

I wish John and Suzanne every success in their next application.

Anne Crumblehulme

Boot Lane

Doffcocker