SIR – I’d like to comment on the welcome publicity you have brought to the issue of Menston Hall and the proposed new-build affordable housing.

I think most people here would be pleased to see this admired historic house renewed, but at present some of the planning is not good.

There are, for example, insufficient parking slots for the expected numbers. That will mean more dreaded overspill traffic that presently is a plague in the village.

Secondly, the development is too big for the grounds. The extra five flats are a serious problem as they will impair the green aspect on the park. More mature trees with TPO status are to be felled as a result.

Neither does the proposal address affordable housing for the elderly, as promised.

It should also be noted that there are already low-cost housing units at the High Royds Estate nearby – many unoccupied.

There is a sense that it is all being rushed through – and that people are only just realising what’s happening.

After all, the plans only appeared on Monday, February 8, at the local library.

The closing date for objections is was Thursday, February 11 – and that was the day the panel would meet to decide!

Let’s hope the postman got there on time!

C Grady, Main Street, Menston