WE are writing to express our opposition to the proposed development at the edge of the A49.

Ludlow does not need this development. There are two excellent DIY-type stores already in Ludlow and a number of specialised builders' merchants both in the town and nearby. Ludlow Homecare has a wide range of products and is open on Sundays. Rickards is an excellent ironmonger and just the sort of specialised shop which the council should be encouraging. Both these shops can expect to suffer if a branch of B&Q is permitted to open on the edge of town.

Those who suggest that the proposed development will bring new jobs to the town should consider the number of existing jobs which may be lost.

Ludlow has recently acquired a commendable reputation for its excellent restaurants and specialised food shops.

These attract tourists from London and further afield, which assists the local economy. It is precisely the fact that there are no fast food chains which continues to bring visitors to the town.

A branch of McDonald's, or similar, will serve no useful purpose and may well deter people from visiting.

One of the pleasures of living in, or visiting, Ludlow is the beautiful countryside surrounding it.

If the proposed development is permitted, the outskirts of Ludlow will start to resemble any other town or city in the country and part of Ludlow's beauty and uniqueness will be lost forever.

The council should preserve Ludlow's distinctive appeal and refuse permission for the development.

J and E Rushen,

Whitton, Ludlow.