An acquaintance recently likened our dwindling green spaces to an attack on the lungs of the city, lungs which create breathing spaces amid the pollution and concrete of modern cosmopolitan life.

Whereas no smoking laws are aimed at protecting our lungs, Oxford's lungs are being threatened in such a way that, in the end, treatment is not an option.

The authorities are building, or planning to build, on the few remaining wild and semi-wild spaces (for example, Warneford Meadows and Southfield golf course).

Apart from the protests of a small, forward-thinking minority, planning permission seems inevitable in a climate where it doesn't matter how many new houses are built, the influx of those requiring housing (often at the expense of local people who cannot hope to meet the inflated prices) has to be met.

Even though our children may have flown the nest, we still like to think that youngsters have the opportunity to climb trees, hide in long grass, explore the brook, catch sight of foxes and deer and so on.

However, buildings cut off the few remaining wildlife corridors and will inevitably lead to a decline in these populations.

For those of us who are older, local green spaces offer an opportunity to leave the car behind and enjoy relaxing walks, a place to exercise or unwind.

So, my plea to those who make the decisions today is that they look at the bigger picture and make decisions they (or we) will not regret tomorrow.

Shirley Nelder, Dene Road, Headington, Oxford