I WAS pleased to see that Kevin Vodden, of Eastcliff, Portishead, had read my letter to the Times on November 5. I was disappointed, however, that he seems to have rather missed the point. My letter

I WAS pleased to see that Kevin Vodden, of Eastcliff, Portishead, had read my letter to the Times on November 5.

I was disappointed, however, that he seems to have rather missed the point.

My letter was written in support of the excellent trading and retail facilities in Portishead (following the previous week's adverse publicity), and highlighted the large number of new businesses coming to the High Street.

I pointed out that there was no shortage of shoppers (many of whom will live on Port Marine or the Village Quarter), and to those retailers who felt that they didn't receive sufficient support from those residents, I suggested that historically, the bulk of their business would have come from a wider area anyway.

I was genuinely surprised at Mr Vodden's 'us and them' comment.

I can honestly say I have never heard residents say 'newcomers do not want to be part of the community'.

On the contrary the development has been welcomed as both attractive and imaginative, and provides as Mr Vodden says 'a superb waterfront location'.

MARTIN SMART Property Management, Hillside Road, Portishead