I HAVE been a resident of Hounslow for the past 25 years and have watched the gradual decline of the high street with sadness and dismay.

I am shocked the heart of the borough, where the Civic Centre is situated, could have been allowed to go into such decline. Surely council-lors have the responsibility of ensuring that Hounslow offers not only its residents but people from the surrounding area a decent, safe shopping and leisure centre.

We need shops that cater for all age ranges and that sell quality merchandise. We need good toy shops, household shops, clothes' shops, cafés and restaurants.

There should be a cinema and leisure facilities for the young and old.

I have four children and not one is interested in frequenting Hounslow, saying how run-down dirty and miserable it is.

They prefer Kingston, Richmond, Chiswick, Brent Cross and Central London.

If we had decent facilities, we would not have to travel so far, saving on pollution as well. Personally, I would love to shop on my doorstep rather than having to travel so far for a better shopping experience with the choice and ambience that should be expected.

I would also love to be able to say that I am going to Hounslow in my spare time, be it during the day or evening, for the restaurants, bars, pubs, cinema, bowling, ice skating, swimming etc.

Come on councillors, get your act together. Get rid of all the outlet and Pound shops.

Hounslow needs an injection of cash that is well-spent and used. It should be a modern, upmarket town centre that its residents are proud of and that attracts people to spend time and money during the day and in the evening. You never know, you might also attract investors into the area at the same time.

From a very disgruntled Hounslow resident and her family who are longing for change.

R DECONTO Via email