Roy White, of Naseby Drive, Heathfield, writes:

I have read in the MDA and other publications items concerning the development of the Old Thatch, Bovey Tracey, which was seriously damaged by fire a few years ago.

Apparently, Bovey Tracey Town Council has already shelled out £95,000 of public money to buy this shell and, presumably, the freehold of the land it more or less stands on.

While agreeing this old building presents an eyesore in its present state, is it worth £95,000 of public money?

It is a private sector eyesore and a private sector problem to solve with private sector money.

Teignbridge, among others, has a say in what is done with the site, which is right and proper. But I hardly think it is incumbent on the local precept payer to foot the bill, even at the behest of those elected to run the town council.

I read that the aforementioned leaders have extensively consulted about this matter, and this is what the people they spoke to asked to happen.

No one asked me.

That is the problem with widely consulting, if you widely consult with the right people you get the right answer.

What is this 'financial package' the town council is putting together?

You can bet your sweet life if the cost is £500,000 before the event it will be more like a million after the dust has settled.

What kind of financial albatross is the town going to be saddled with and for how long?

If the Old Thatch needs to be rebuilt it does not need to be rebuilt by the town council, which might by a less tolerant onlooker be viewed as an attempt to raise its profile.

We live in difficult times. Public debt must be reduced not increased, so that in future when something important needs to be done, the money is available to do it.MORE LETTERS IN OUR DIGITAL EDITION