I AGREE with the remarks made by Margo Grimshaw (LET, September 3) -- the Blackburn we knew and loved has been ruined by our town planners and local councillors.

The demise began with demolition of the Market Hall and clock and has progressed from there.

As someone who has lived and worked in Blackburn for most of my life, I would appeal to future planners to leave us some of our heritage.

We have just visited several Scandinavian cities and St Petersburg, in Russia, where all the lovely old buildings are still standing, and cherished by the local people and tourists.

Blackburn town centre is almost devoid of character now.

Who needs modern iron structures of futuristic design?

KATHLEEN MARTIN, Kestrel Close, Blackburn.