RE: 83-89 Lower Bristol Road, Weston, and the proposed redevelopment by Bach Homes, we wish to make known our strong objections to the plans put forward. The stone-built villas of 19th and early 20th century Weston are a priceless asset and the loss of a

RE: 83-89 Lower Bristol Road, Weston, and the proposed redevelopment by Bach Homes, we wish to make known our strong objections to the plans put forward. The stone-built villas of 19th and early 20th century Weston are a priceless asset and the loss of any of them amounts to the progressive erosion of the town's character. These four semi-detached houses originally abutted the old 'Lodge' estate and they form the logical eastern boundary to the Boulevard and Montpelier Conservation Area.Loss of these houses would amount to the same kind of vandalism that Bath experienced in the 1960s when so many of the 'lesser' Georgian houses and cottages were demolished. The city bitterly regrets those losses today. Similar damage was sustained in Weston during the 1970s and 1980s - particularly on the hillside; prompting the fierce local protest that brought about the Boulevard and Montpelier Conservation Area. In our book 'Weston-super-Mare in Watercolours' we expressed the view that "Weston's architectural heritage was a little more secure". Today, the sentiment is beginning to look dangerously complacent.Buildings constructed from the local limestone cannot happen again in Weston. The quarries are closed and the masonry skills are virtually non-existent. Such houses must be defended and treated as a precious resource; not plundered by some development whim. We hope these proposals will be firmly rejected by North Somerset Council and the conservation area extended.DR HOWARD AND ROSIE SMITH - Stafford Place, Weston