Sir -- How can the planners in the Oxfordshire County Highways Department justify the changes that must be made to their Cowley Road plans after receiving public and council approval?

What is the point of having public consultation if the public's decision is overturned?

David Robertson, the county council's executive member for transport, is patronising when he says: "It is important to let people know what decisions have been made, particularly as their involvement has been valuable so far" (Oxford Mail, August 31).

Why doesn't he or a member from the highways department come straight out and say that the cost of building a mini-roundabout is way above the estimate and will have to be done later? After all, it has not been ruled out.

I fear there is another crisis looming and steps have to be taken to avoid another 'Cornmarket Crisis'.

VIM RODRIGO

Rivermead Road

Rose Hill

Oxford