SIR – There is no doubt that Councillor Val Townend is right in her assertion that further housing and economic development in Baildon, like that over the last 50 years, will lead to more severe traffic congestion, if corresponding improvements to infrastructure are not made (Letters, December 23).

As Coun Townend recognises, this situation did not emerge overnight. Therefore, it should be pointed out that the Conservatives (together with the Lib-Dems) have represented Baildon on Bradford Council since 1974, some 40 years ago! They also had periods in control of Bradford Council (sometimes in collusion with the Lib Dems) and have been in government for over half of that time (most recently with the Lib Dems!).

I would therefore suggest that Baildon’s electors ask the following questions: What have our Conservative and Lib Dem councillors been doing to champion Baildon’s needs since 1974? What benefits has Baildon had from 40 years of representation by these two parties? Why isn’t she, together with Conservative councillors Roger L’Amie and Debbie Davies, putting pressure on the Lib Dem/Conservative Government to fund the Shipley Eastern Link Road, which will do most to relieve congestion in Baildon?

Joe Ashton, Baildon Labour Party, Sandals Road, Baildon