WHEN giving planning consent for projects it would seem councillors listen to the developers but are deaf to the views of residents - the people who elected them.

This was demonstrated by the “we know best” attitude adopted by councillors against the people who foresaw the Durham Market Place disaster.

The saga still continues and they still don’t listen.

Residents were again ignored when permission was granted for The Village @ The Viaduct student accommodation.

Planning permission is currently being considered to develop an agricultural field site into a 120 house estate in Sherburn Village. The current County Plan does not identify Sherburn Village as an area for development.

However, it seems the builders know it will be in 2015.

This is even before the plan has had any public exposure or consultation about proposals the councillors may have.

Are the builders pressing on with their plans because they know the outcome of the public “consultation” before it happens or is it just due to idle gossip on the golf course?

Councillors were elected and are paid to represent the people. They should put the community at the heart of any decision making.

Listen to us and use your common sense before embarking on another dangerous and ruinous project.

S Walton, Sherburn