SURPRISE, surprise. Despite the empty promises from the esteemed leaders of Redditch Council, yet again a big fat nothing has been delivered for the long suffering local population, especially the young people.

The real surprise is it has taken an impartial Government Inspector to deliver the common sense verdict that the proposed Abbey Stadium development would harm the town centre.

I call upon Borough Director Chris Smith and the planning team to resign in the best interests of the town and for an appointment of new officials with the foresight and drive to make Redditch and the town centre something to be proud of - a vibrant bustling area and a mixed economy which will provide for all sectors of society.

The refurbishment of the Palace Theatre is wonderful.

What a pity the land in front of the theatre will be the new Apollo electrical store instead of enhancing the community facilities, such as in Solihull with the Library Square. (The Apollo development is another story.)

I repeat, only Redditch can create a dog's dinner of the town centre and create a low-wage economy where poor services, poor public transport and a lack of leisure facilities exist and is tolerated as the norm.

Yes, Birmingham is nearby if you are lucky enough to be able to afford the fares and can get to and from the city centre.

Please, please Mr Smith, GO NOW, before it really is too late, Stop the delivery of schemes thought up by Councillors such as AIR and the fiasco that accompanied that that do nothing for the town.

I live in hope after all without hope we are hopeless.

ROBERT RAINBOW

Foxhill Barns

Foxhill Lane

Alvechurch