Sir – The defeat of the West Way project was a rare victory of people power over corporate greed. I would like to congratulate the people of Botley on their extraordinary campaign.

At every level we see the success of projects for short-term profit against the views of the public. Of course, the locusts will be back. It is important that the unity of the campaign be maintained, which includes political parties avoiding claims for the victory. It was won by people of all political parties and none.

I would also like to thank the Conservative councillors for paying attention to the views of their constituents. I will do everything in my power to prevent the return of their party’s destructive government, but it is important to acknowledge good work where it happens.

What would really be great is if this was the start of a trend. Imagine!:

  • Oxford City Council forcing the lowering of the University’s barracks which deface the marvellous Port Meadow
  • The Vale listening to residents angry at the proposed loss of their Green Belt
  • Cherwell refusing to allow doubling of the size of the mini-Guantanamo in Kidlington.

And, perhaps better than anything, building homes that local people can really afford!

Larry Sanders, Green Party Parliamentary Candidate, Oxford West and Abingdon