In response to the article Saving our gardens will protect Dorset’s character (Daily Echo, June 10) I must say that I am bemused by some of the comments made.

I have been developing in the area for over 30 years and to date have built more than 1,000 homes and more than any other developer on the Sandbanks peninsula.

I have the utmost respect for the planning teams in the local authorities and that is because they are qualified to make the decisions that they do.

In respect of the new guidance relating to subdivision of plots and using gardens to build where feasible, it is my belief that this is the start of a long journey towards creating a further shortage of homes that are desperately needed.

My view is that while we have to find a solution to our country’s debt by way of cutbacks, a step in the right direction would be to abolish planning committees and leave the issues of density, design and material usage to those who are qualified to deal with those issues. Stop the obstruction caused by an ageing generation who perhaps are not so forward thinking in considering future generations.

There is too much concern about protection of very old trees which, if human, would be on life support, and not enough emphasis on planting new trees or the protection of those which have been newly planted.

There is not enough emphasis on the use of good quality materials – the use of natural materials for mere aesthetics is not sustainable.

The allowance for gaps between buildings should be set throughout the boroughs.

Developer contributions and in particular transport contributions should be made more transparent.

Developers should not be viewed at the enemy.

Eddie Mitchell, Dean Court Stadium, Bournemouth