HAVING once again had to contact the council about dumping in our area of Blackburn, I am convinced that owners of land get planning permission far too easily.

If, when applying, they had to give statements on when they would build and how the development would be funded, it would stop areas lying derelict for years.

I contacted Councillor Kate Hollern and she came to see me the next day with Councillor Mohammed Khan and they were shocked.

The only thing growing on Chatburn Gardens is a mattress. Yet, all it takes is a phone call to the Council and they will remove householders' unwanted furniture free of charge.

SAM SPENCE, Ribblesdale Place, Blackburn.