SIR,

I have read with interest the letters from various people with regard to the Local Development Plan areas of Vauxhall Fields and Wonastow Road and have spoken with many residents regarding the issue.

I agree with the concerns over flooding, however it seems there is another argument to be made and that is the people of Monmouth do not actually need or indeed want any more new housing developments.

Monmouth is a small historic market town with a strong tourist industry which makes up for a great deal of its income, especially during the summer months.

The town prospers due to its location in an area of outstanding natural beauty and sites of special scientific and historical interest which attract visitors from all over the world.

If we take away these green areas then we will certainly be at risk of spoiling the image of Monmouth and also lose valuable sites for flora and fauna, our natural history.

We will literally be taking away the meaning of our town, which will have an effect on our vibrant tourist trade not to mention the effect it will have on our rare wildlife at Wonastow and Vauxhall.

Monmouth is already barely coping with increased traffic as can be seen in Monnow Street on weekends when there is no parking available and cars double-parked all along the street and on the double yellow lines.

Would a tourist want to visit a small town which does not have anywhere to park?

We have no A&E at our hospital, the schools are all full, there are no jobs available and we have far less police than 10 years ago.  How on earth can Monmouth cope with any more people and vehicles?

If you look at the number of houses for sale in Monmouth it does not take long to realise that we do not need more houses and with the flooding issue it is obvious that another large development is ridiculous. The only benefit is to the developers.

Steve Wadley

(Monmouth)