Planners’ whimsical ruling is not the first

THE city planners’ objection to a timber cycle shed in a conservation area, Stoneygate, is an oddity, but it is not the first (“Mayor wades in over ‘David v Goliath’ debate”, Leicester Mercury, May 13).

Another is UPVC windows and doors in conversation areas.

There was a time when a lot of shop windows were getting smashed. The planners insisted that the shutters would be allowed only if they were installed behind the glass! How absurd! And the shutters must have perforations so that the window shoppers can view in. Who in their right mind would go window shopping after dark? Only the window breakers, to choose and pick the loot.

Shutters are a necessity for a retailer to make a living.

I was paid a visit from the planners on the pretext that my traditional Mercury A-board was causing an obstruction. The real reason was to pressure me to remove my artwork posters critical of the politicians, who had taken umbrage.

As a stakeholder in the city one could rightfully object to the hideous buildings allowed along Vaughan Way. None are aesthetically pleasing or welcoming.

Going back to the site in question the photograph shows a brick boundary wall and hedge – which one is non-compliant?

The interpretation of planning is whimsical. The planning philosophy is meant to be evolving, not be stuck in time. It is decided that the councillors will determine the fate of the shed... we are in for a surprise.

Subhash Varambhia, Leicester