I ATTENDED the meeting of Herefordshire Council at the Shire Hall to listen to the debate regarding the Southern Link Road and was surprised and disappointed at the dismissive attitude of the councillors towards those people who had the temerity to question and challenge the recommendation of route SC2.

It appears that important environmental issues regarding the proposed route passing through ancient woodland were ignored when it related to the favoured route but became of paramount importance to reject the claims of three alternative cheaper routes.

I see no difference between the “ancient woodland” at the eastern end of the route and the “ancient woodland” at the western end.

I also understand that English Heritage are unhappy that SC2 passes close to a Grade II Listed building but again this is discounted by our representatives anxious to drive through their preferred route.

The overall impression of a fait accompli on the part of the council suggests an inadequate and flawed consultation and a lack of regard for our famed British democracy.

MELANIE HARRIS Belmont