Sir, – The intention of our MP Jeremy Hunt to attack "new planning rules which would undermine greenfield protection and fuel inappropriate over development" is to be highly commended and amply justified by the attention drawn by The Farnham Herald's front page article (August 19). It would appear strange however that Mr Hunt is "particularly concerned about the proposed development of nine new houses" with access from the cul-de-sac in Lynch Road. This proposal is not in any way related to greenfield protection or any new planning rules. The proposal is for a small and attractive development situated in an urban area within comfortable walking distance of the rail station and the town centre. The frontage to the cul-de-sac does not require demolition of any houses as has been the source of contention with other developments. Owing to the disproportionately long gardens in Old Compton Lane, it utilises land surplus to need. In respect of the street scene, it is unobtrusive and unlikely to be seen by more than a small number of residents. This is perhaps a disadvantage when considering its attractive appearance. If any reader is interested, I suggest they go to the end of the cul-de-sac and judge for themselves the potential of the site. Roger Steel is concerned by the increase in traffic which he would have to endure, all the traffic from nine houses thundering past his front garden. Perhaps the majority of us townsfolk would envy his sheltered position. The reality is that some further development in Farnham is inevitable and I suggest that it is the responsibility of all of us to resist proposals which are inappropriate but also support those which meet the needs of a growing community, consistent with the highest standards. Mr Hunt, as our recently elected MP, clearly has to make his mark but his choice of this modest and attractive development as a cause celebre is perplexing.
John Bower, Old Compton Lane, Farnham