IN your article in Wednesday, May 31 on the future of Wessex Fields off the A338 you state that the borough, when purchasing the site in February (it was actually January), approved major works to create a new junction at Holdenhurst Village. This is not correct.

Draft plans have been shown at various locations, inviting public comment. Plans are due to be submitted in July. Your article gives the impression that the matter is a fait Accompli and that this scheme is largely about alleviating congestion at the front of the hospital at Castle Lane East, when it is not.

Many local residents and organisations are extremely unhappy with the scheme, as will soon become clear. According to the council’s Outline Business Case estimates, the Wessex Field/Riverside Avenue offices scheme (6.07ha) will result in an extra 1,140 cars between 08:00-09:00, and an extra 867 between 17:00-18:00.

Thus, it is very hard to believe the council’s claims as regards reducing congestion on Castle Lane East.

What can be guaranteed, however, is a substantial increase in noise, air, water and light pollution along with the damaging effect on the surrounding green belt and countryside which many people enjoy.

RAY O’LUBY

Throop Road, Bournemouth

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