Sir – Further to a number of recent letters to The Oxford Times concerning development, it is clear that many of us feel that the solutions to transport and housing issues put forward in proposed developments are inspired either by desperation or by commercial gain, and in some cases possibly by both, rather than by due consideration of the locality.

The required consultation process appears to be solely a box-ticking affair.  In reality, local experience of the local environment, its practicalities, problems and value, do not seem to be taken into account and planned developments appear to be generic, kit-built affairs.

Residents are generally aware of and agree with the need for new houses, new jobs and a better transport system but are also knowledgeable of particular local features which should be taken into consideration.

The issue of infrastructure, flooding risk, air quality and volume of traffic have all been raised in a large number of the letters to The Oxford Times and there are an increasing number of local groups who are concerned that the environmental tests carried out by the box-tickers are not adequate.

The Green Belt was developed to prevent overloading in sensitive areas and, despite the call to use Green Belt land for required development, the original purpose is still relevant and awareness of the local environment for all developments is crucial.

Michele Topham, Wolvercote