Sir – There is quite a simple answer to the loss of retail outlets in Summertown and elsewhere.

With the nation becoming hooked on Internet shopping the need for High Street shops is apparently diminishing. The solution surely is therefore to close all High Street shops and revert them to their previous use (especially the parade of shops in Summertown) and use them as residences. This would solve the homelessness problem, avoid the need to use up Green Belt land for development, and help avoid the unsightly presence of empty shops.

Dave Clarke, New Marston