Having followed the Oxford Mail’s reports of the proposed closures of toilet facilities in and around the city of Oxford, I feel I should contribute a few lines on such a head-clogging idea.

Successful trading relies on investing in better services to attract visitors and the local population – as we know to our cost here in Abingdon.

Oxford is famous for many reasons, but if this idea goes through, visitors and locals will be identified by a special walk (an Oxford cross-legged gait) and this is not easy to do when carrying two shopping bags, a handbag, a plastic mack and a brolly.

After a few hours of this, the next test would be attempting to board the bus, because, with one foot raised in a situation like this, the risk could spoil your day.

Oxford is the UK’s jewel-in-the-crown with tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world. So how can the people at the Town Hall not see the wisdom in promoting a great welcome, coupled with the best of customer care for them and local people?

My question to the electorate is: are you receiving the brand of democracy that you expected from your local politicians when you voted for them?

After all, some people have been charged for parking outside their homes; the rubbish collection has been changed; motorists are being driven away from Oxford by very high parking charges and speed restrictions.

Is this what you voted for?

If the answer is no, then who are the local councillors representing, if not the people of this great city and surrounding area? It’s food for thought, for when the elections come around.

MAURICE SHEA, Hadland Road, Abingdon