With reference to comments made by Dean Goodman (St Albans Observer, February 14).

Firstly, I must take issue with Mr Goodman's assertion that the Planning Department promises "openness, transparency, consultation and considered debate". I, and many others, have experienced only evasiveness and disorganisation with public consultation kept to a bare minimum.

Secondly, I am fully aware that the planning system is biased in favour of the applicant and that, all things being equal, planning permission is granted. My point is that, given this bias, the onus must be on the planning department to enforce its own policies, as detailed in the Local Plan.

The Local Plan is the most important of the relevant documents because it is the only one which reflects the particular requirements of our district. Where it does not conflict with County or Government policy it should be adhered to, not ignored. Unfortunately this is often not what happens.

For example, in one week, permission was given to demolish two listed buildings, one of which, being in Stanhope Road, is in the Conservation Area.

The proposed re-development of the college city campus, also inside the Conservation Area, involves the destruction of several large, graceful houses and, I imagine, a number of attractive mature trees.

These buildings are all listed, presumably because they are considered an asset to St. Albans. Though they are now a little tatty, they do not fulfil the criteria outlined by central as well as local government for allowing listed buildings to be demolished.

Could they, and the building in Stanhope Road, not be converted to flats thus providing more affordable housing in the city centre but retaining the character of the area?

Other home-owners in the conservation area are not even allowed to fit uPVC windows in their homes, never mind demolish them at will.

I am not against the principle of development and my comments do not stem from a single planning decision with which I do not agree, as suggested by Mr Goodman. I am voicing the very real concerns of a large number of the citizens of St Albans who feel that their valid objections are being ignored and that dangerous planning precedents are being set.

Mr Goodman mentions the 1,500 letters received by the planning department about a single application. I wonder how many of them were in favour of it?

Margaret Burridge, Flora Grove, St Albans.