Sir,

I have been disappointed to read that after the recent council elections, the newly elected councillors have reappointed the same individuals into the senior positions despite being responsible for the fiascos such as the Monmouth planning disputes, the Abergavenny Market and its replacement; some rural roads becoming almost impassable because of pot holes, along with the disposal of Meend Farm, Penalt.

On the latter subject, just to show how generous these officials were, Trelleck Hill Farm situated just over half a mile from Meend Farm sold recently at auction for £425,000.

This farm consisted of a range of small farm buildings with 16 acres of pasture, with the house being two up and two down with no bathroom facilities, in a derelict condition.

Compare this with Meend Farm which the council subsidised the sale of the modernised house, range of modern farm buildings and a stone barn with planning potential, along with 118 acres for just over a hundred thousand pounds more?

Those senior members claiming credit for freezing council tax rises that were in fact directives from central Government.

It seems inconceivable therefore that the new councillors, including the Liberals and the independents, have elected those same people, who were responsible for the above set of shambles during the last administration, back into the senior positions.

If they are the best available from those recently elected into public office then I think local democracy must be in a sad state.

Paul Kedward

(Mitchel Troy Common)