DEAR EDITOR - It was my understanding that with the introduction of the Cabinet style of governance by Bromsgrove District Council that there would be no reduction in openness or transparency.

Through your excellent newspaper's reporting this is clearly not the case with many important discussions and decisions taking place behind closed doors.

Just what do they have to hide?

I have to say I was pleased to read that three elected non-cabinet members have had the courage to question some of the financial aspects of the £2.5 million Arts Centre development and that a special meeting had been called to discuss these - albeit again behind closed doors.

With regards to your front page article in the issue dated September 4, in respect of the proposed alterations to the car parking arrangements and charges, which I have to say beggar's belief. Is it the desire of Bromsgrove District Council to turn the town centre into a 'ghost town' in the evenings and Sundays by introducing additional charges for parking?

Should the recommendations of the responsible council officers be ratified then it will - to be sure - not enhance the viability of local businesses.

I have to say I can understand Councillor Peter McDonald's frustration in not being able to obtain responses to correspondence as I still await a response from Councillor Dennis Norton, the leader of the council, which I wrote to him on June 4 and to which I know he has had two verbal reminders from two of my ward councillors.

All I can say is roll on election time in May 2002 when the electorate will have the opportunity of expressing their judgement on the last four years ..... via the ballot box.

K I Footman,

Bromsgrove. (by e-mail)