Separate planning panels for each town

I agree with Cllr Coppinger's letter (Viewpoint, November 6). He is absolutely correct, parish and town councils do not have any executive power over planning decisions. His letter however also crystallises the issues surrounding borough wide planning decisions.

Two major planning applications for the Clewer and Dedworth West ward were considered at the borough wide development panel (Ruddlespool and Aldi) and yet no local councillor had a vote on these, despite both applications having a significant and wide ranging effects on our community. The problems were further exacerbated by my rather clumsy three minute response in an attempt to represent several diverse local organisations.

The first issue is easily solved with a return to separate Windsor and

Maidenhead planning panels.

The second issue is more substantive, a town council for Windsor would be able to co-ordinate the views of local organisations, provide a more professional and substantiated response to local planning applications and to effectively participate in the democratic process.

Whilst it cannot make the final decision, they can ensure fair and proper representation of local people on local issues.

As a resident, I would much prefer to be under the table begging for scraps, than locked in a cage with a muffle on.

RICHARD ENDACOTT Kingsfield

Windsor