In their call for a new approach to festivals Canon Chivers and Anjum Anwar (LT, November 15) raise important issues. However, many people in the borough of Blackburn with Darwen are rightly questioning the nature of this decision.

Is this really a bold move to address failed multiculturism or a poorly thought through cost cutting exercise?

Taking the two most popular events in town and without consultation throwing them together in the town centre was bold. It was also arrogant.

A council that chooses to avoid consultation - as with the recent 10% performance pay rises for senior officers and closure of community centres - is not one that should be congratulated.

Replacing events at which thousands of residents mix with thousands of visitors in our fabulous parks needs careful consideration.

Will we have 30,000 people in the town centre as we did in Corporation and Witton Parks?

It is important to realise that through valuing difference our borough has avoided the troubles that have occurred elsewhere.

This success has been based on respect for the views and opinions of all. Community cohesion is vital and discussions about bringing together festivals are legitimate.

However, such decisions require careful scrutiny, not a hastily forced through plan that clearly lacks cohesion'.

The Labour group is therefore happy to join the Lancashire Telegraph in calling for an open debate on this issue and will ensure that this happens via a meeting of the full council.

COUN JOHN WRIGHT