In Graham Butland’s article in the Braintree and Witham Times on August 8 concerning the need for more housing, there was one part that caught my eye.

To quote Mr Butland: ‘We need to ensure we protect the characteristics, and up hold what makes our part of Essex a fantastic place to live’.

I noticed that he used the word ‘Essex’ and not ‘Braintree’ because over the years the character of the town has changed, and not for the better.

For example, the market used to have more stalls in the Square than they have altogether on Wednesdays and Saturdays now.

The high street was always busy because of retail outlets such as the Maypole, Townrow, Hannay and Davies.

Now all we have are opticians, hairdressers, estate agents, flats and places to eat and drink.

The other thing that will change, if Mr Butland gets his way, will be Braintree Town Football Club.

The club has been part of the history of the town for 119 years and they have been at their current site for 94 years.

It would appear that Mr Butland is retaining the character of this part of Essex by wanting to build elsewhere.

I believe anyone wishing to be on the council should live within the boundaries of the town.

Then they would have the same feelings as the people who live, work and shop there.

From KJ Finlay of Marks Garden, Braintree