'We should be very worried about housing quotas' - Your Letters: September 15

We should be very worried about housing quotas, recently reported in the Star.

At least 500 acres of greenfield and farmland are being “considered” for housing, which I totted up from the article, but this doesn’t include three areas whose sizes weren’t stated.

I’ve searched the internet for acreage of brownfield sites where I live in Shropshire and can’t find a figure, but surely these places should be used first? 

Land is bought by developers and “banked” until the value goes up and they get planning.

Vitally, consideration should be given to the loss of land for our food production.

This doesn’t seem to be important but it should be, even more so as we are falling foul of our extreme weather and lower imports due to other countries’ floods etc, and wars and tariffs.

Of course housing is vital too, but “inclusive” plans must be the answer for the long term.

And dare I say, the temptation to accept chunks of money from developers needs to be resisted in favour of brownfield sites.

Fingers crossed.

R Allen, Ellesmere

PLEASE GET FLAGS RIGHT WAY UP

Very colourful to see the flags flying around the place, but I see that all the Union Jack flags around the Meole Brace island and along Otley Road to Lidl are upside down! For goodness sake, if you profess to be a Nationalist, then please know the right way to fly your own flag!

Henry Young, Hanwood

LET'S HAVE HONEST ASYLUM DEBATE

​We appreciate that people hold a range of views on the UK’s asylum system. It’s a subject that deserves honest, respectful discussion—not fear-mongering or divisive rhetoric.

Recently, Conservative Parish Councillor Stuart Parr shared a statement that, once again, reflects his tendency to stir controversy rather than foster constructive dialogue. While we strongly reject much of what he said, we do agree on one important point: asylum seekers living in hotels are not responsible for government policy and should never be made to feel unsafe.

Many of these individuals have fled war, persecution, and hardship in search of basic human dignity and safety. Treating them with compassion is a moral duty, not a “radical” act.

Regarding organisations like Stand Up To Racism, we stand with any group that challenges hatred and promotes solidarity. They are not a political party, but a broad movement committed to fighting racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of bigotry, and promoting equality. We are proud to stand alongside them.

Cllr Parr’s attempt to smear anti-racism campaigners by linking them to extremism is a tired and cynical tactic designed to divide rather than unite. People’s frustration with the asylum system should be directed at those in power—not at those fleeing harm, or those peacefully supporting them.

Mr Parr would have been welcome to attend our peaceful rally in support of refugees, where he would have found calm, respect, and community spirit—not “thuggery,” disruption, or hate. We call for unity and a borough that is welcoming, safe, and fair for all.

Andréa Bailey, Telford & Wrekin Green Party

BUY UP READY FOR EASTER RIGHT NOW

With the end of the year racing towards us it's never too early to plan ahead for those festive breaks, so why not buy those Easter presents now and save money?

But are you stuck as to what to buy a gentleman of advancing years? Then look no further than some of the exciting offers available from myself and Uncle Norbert through our company, Grumpy Granpas Very Limited.

For a mere £150.99 we offer Expando Colonel Bogey Trousers, built for the occasion when four pieces of bread pudding and thick custard is just not enough. By pressing the secret button in the left hand pocket the waistline will increase by four inches. Batteries not included.

For a mere £120.99 we offer a polite way to let guests know they have outstayed their welcome. These specially designed Deputy Dawg pyjamas are just the ticket, with the back of the jimjams jacket lighting up with the message, "Haven't You People Got Homes?" batteries not included.

Anyone spending over £271.97 will get a free box of 20 batteries. For Health and Safety reasons the tamper proof box can only be opened with two batteries. Batteries not included.

Peter Steggles, Rushbury

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