I am delighted that Mrs Fikiori is happy with the decision to refuse planning permission for the redevelopment of Gunnels in Fairview Road and can assure her that the council does, indeed, care very much about the character and heritage of our town. Her c

I am delighted that Mrs Fikiori is happy with the decision to refuse planning permission for the redevelopment of Gunnels in Fairview Road and can assure her that the council does, indeed, care very much about the character and heritage of our town.

Her conclusion that there has been a successful outcome may, however, be premature as the applicant has the right to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate against the council's decision. I hope, of course, that any such appeal is dismissed but I am concerned that, if it is successful, the costs of that appeal could fall upon the council. That would be a far from successful outcome. The proposed redevelopment would still go ahead and Stevenage Borough Council would have to find the money to pay for the costs of the appeal.

BRIAN HALL, Leader, Stevenage Borough Council