I REFER to Mr John Booth's letter published in the Bolton Evening News on Saturday, March 30, about Cutacre Opencast site.

I completely agree with the contents of his letter. We are all aware that the planning consent was granted by this Labour Government in the face of local opposition and this Labour council has failed to successfully challenge that consent for the benefit of the people of Over Hulton and Bolton.

This consent was granted with numerous conditions imposed to control and prevent the documented problems this consent would generate.

We are now informed that these conditions are being challenged by UK Coal and, in particular, the requirement of the railhead to be in place before extraction can commence.

If the extraction is allowed to start before the railhead is in place, it would have a massive impact on the amount of heavy goods vehicles passing through the Hulton Park boundaries, which is not acceptable.

The Conservative Group and its councillors will continue to fight to oppose any relaxation of these conditions, without compromise.

Keep up the good work, John, and, together, we will oppose and protect the quality of life in the Hulton Park Ward.

Andrew P Morgan

Conservative Candidate

(Hulton Park Ward)