MADAM,

I have been following the campaign by Friends of Chippenham Mead.

Frankly, I can’t see what benefit the 500 yards between the playground site suggested and present one would have. Myself, and others, wonder what duties and responsibilities the Friends are delivering as volunteers for ‘Chippy,’ which is under the care of Monmouthshire County Council.

Is there an action plan or perhaps terms of reference, given by the local authority available? Taxpayers should be interested when our elected councillors spend large amounts, and they might want to be informed, advise, donate, or help.

A letter in a recent Beacon is evidence of expectations of value. In the past the town council has tacitly agreed on the planting of sixty fruit trees and making a orchard alongside the allotments, (also part of Chippy). This was not opposed. Land being at a premium, can it be so easy to make changes to our village greens? We need constant diligence to see that our open spaces, green belts and village greens are not exploited in any way.

From a Monmothian.

S G Gilbert

(Monmouth)