ON opening my Lancashire Evening Telegraph on June 27, I could not believe what I was reading, that Blackburn with Darwen Council had given the go-ahead to demolish another set of listed buildings to make way for apartment blocks in one of the oldest parts of Blackburn.

Coun Andy Kay has the brass neck to say "that it will be a massive benefit to the area" . Really, as were the now infamous pavilions? Pray, tell the people of Blackburn the wonderful benefits of these white elephants, and all those entrepreneurs lining up to move their businesses there.

Do we really need apartments situated in the heart of Blackburn? I don't think so Margo. I and many more would not be putting their names down.

And what of the newly refurbished Fleming Square, that the council tax payers of this town have paid for? What is to become of this very unique area?

Another question to Coun Kay and the caring council, what about the logistical problems and the upheaval that will ensue around a very busy area, heavy plant machinery, safety, road closures, etc?

Do the people of Blackburn have to suffer all this because of someone's pipe dream?

No, we lost Blackburn's character in the 60s, let's not lose the oldest parts of our town. If they need refurbishing, let the relevant people dig deep and make them more attractive to the public.

STEWART WILCOX, (via email).