IN response to the letters regarding planning permission in Lower Darwen, I would like to comment as a resident of Lower Darwen and not as a political animal responsible to a political party.

The takeaway planning application for Fore Street was objected to on grounds of noise and traffic nuisance, litter and smells.

A case was put that these problems in a small village, adequately serviced by an already existing fast food outlet - the local chippy, three Chinese, numerous Asian and middle eastern fast food establishments all within a one-mile radius and only a telephone call away (with free delivery to the home) - would create unacceptable problems for those living nearby. Similar planning applications had previously been denied.

The application was granted in the casting vote of an 'independent' (voted in on a Labour Party Ticket) councillor.

I was surprised at David Smith's letter (LET, July) in which he said: "If people in Lower Darwen don't want these takeaways then they do not have to use them."

He is aware that Lower Darwen people didn't want the thing in the first place and his comment is akin to saying 'like it or lump it'.

That is not like David at all. Normally he listens and takes note of what is being said and if he don't agree, he puts up a reasoned argument. In this case, I fear he hasn't.

The Paper Mill development was something badly needed and wanted. My recollection was that there were two objections and a 600-plus petition in favour of improving the area with the development. It is now some 20 months since the application went to John Prescott's Northern office - what's keeping them?

The Post Office was a done thing once the decision by the PO Counters was made to close. No amount of petitions, representations or public outcry will change their mind. The assistance given by our former later councillors was appreciated but even they knew it was futile.

ROBERT SIMPSON, Farfield Drive, Lower Darwen.