I UNDERSTAND that there is an application to re-develop the building in Portishead High Street which is currently used as a florist and a coffee shop.

I UNDERSTAND that there is an application to re-develop the building in Portishead High Street which is currently used as a florist and a coffee shop.

Luckily the first time this application was offered, the council did not agree to offer planning permission on the grounds that parking by the building could pose some serious safety risks. Thank goodness for commonsense. However, there is a new application and I urge the council not to waiver.

This is one of the oldest buildings in Portishead and, as a town which celebrates its status as Victorian, surely any move to develop old building should be resisted. Residents of and visitors to Portishead enjoy the quaint differences that Portishead has to offer.

Adding further modern flats and retail accommodation would not add to the unique historic environment that is Portishead High Street. The slow demise of the High Street into 'anytown' - the death of independent local business employing local people will only encourage further national chains such as the new coffee shop or the bakery to set up shop.

I hope the council continues to not grant planning permission and that we will continue to enjoy Portishead High Street as the special and historic place that it is.

SUZI GRIFFIN

South Road, Portishead