I am appalled that councillors are going to allow such a monstrosity as the proposed new Co-op to be built in West St Helen's Street, Abingdon (Oxford Mail, August 12).

What are they thinking of?

I agree with Paul Heast, whose shop, Glendales, will be next to this monster, when he says this "will make Abingdon a laughing stock". When I moved to Culham three and a half years ago, looking at the architecture in Abingdon was such a pleasure.

Everything I saw which appeared apparently new blended in nicely with its surroundings.

Obviously, the committees cannot refer everything back to the full council, but such items which are so important should be, if the majority is fewer than three.

Otherwise our heritage in Abingdon will be demolished on the whims of individuals.

Do not forget all council members are elected by the people, who have put their trust in them. ROSEMARY McNISH, The Willows, Culham