I was horrified to read the article in the paper about plans to build on the eastern side of Darwen and in Blackburn.

This is not a good way to keep families in Darwen and Blackburn.

The suggestion, I gathered, was that more affluent families moved out towards the tops to live in their detached and semi-detached ‘executive’ rabbit hutches, while other families occupied their homes.

There is plenty of good, solid housing stock in both Darwen and Blackburn.

In another location, the terrace houses and Victorian villas would be much sought-after.

The real problems are the lack of considerate development, social problems, arbitrary lettings and anti-social behaviour.

Please do not build on the hayfields where the kestrel hunts and my dog plays ball while cats pass haughty stares from the fence.

Do not build on the marshy meadow where the marsh orchids flower when it has been too wet for the council to mow.

Do not build on Billy Fields (all fenced off, no livestock, no ponies).

Rather than building out of town, the powers-that-be might consider building in town, developing a sense of decency and civic pride.

People might then say, “Oh I wish I lived in Blackburn/Darwen” as we do when we visit Edgworth.

They could both be really lovely towns. Most of the people living in them are decent folk who deserve a chance.

Middle England ghettos on the hillsides are not the answer.

K Keppie, (via email).