I read the article about the West Way development and was once again dismayed by a term Mr Hilcox repeats like a mantra: ‘We have had talks with....... They have been positive about our plans.’

The community in Botley is learning fast that this is smoke and mirrors and an interesting interpretation of reality. The same terminology was used to describe the position of Sovereign, the housing association responsible for Field House, yet the directors have clearly told the community that they are positively against the present proposals and are lodging a robust objection.

Similarly it was said of the vicar and the church but again the people of Botley have discovered that the vicar and St Peter and Paul Church are positively against the present plan.

I think it important that the people of Botley and the planning committee know that when the developer says people are positive about the proposals it may well mean they are positively against them.

GRAHAM SYKES West Way Botley Oxford