The article, We're fed up with eyesore (Oxford Mail, May 1), referring to the half-completed building in Ashhurst Way, Rose Hill, Oxford, highlights the problems faced by residents in the area, when the Government 'tinkers' with planning laws and the local authority turns a blind eye to infringement of 'conditions' imposed when planning permission was granted.

Reg Morley will be surprised to know that the building which appears to look like a three-bedroom house is a semi-detached house, the dwelling units separated by a staggered party wall.

Questions were raised at the Rose Hill Tenants and Residents Association meeting as early as April 2003, and as chairman at that time, I made inquiries.

I was surprised to find that building work had begun without the applicant fulfilling the planning conditions and obtaining building regulations' approval.

Building works are supposed to be regularly inspected by building control officers, but I am baffled as to how and when inspections were carried out as I allege the roof of the building was almost complete when 'conditional' approval was given.

I understand from the correspondence I have received that 'full' approval has not yet been given, which may account for work stopping in the summer of 2003.

The council, too, is guilty for adding its bit to this blot on the landscape, as adjacent to this building lies an alleyway, now disused, due to council neglect and building operations.

I have raised this issue many times at area meetings and in correspondence, but no interest has been shown by councillors or the responsible city departments.

It wouldn't surprise me, as it has happened before, to see another amenity lost, taken away from the people by stealth.

But then, who cares? The local elections are over . . .

Vim Rodrigo Rivermead Road Rose Hill Oxford