IN THE Informer on October 23, Daniel Goodger complained: "We need to allow the general public to have a greater say on what happens on their doorsteps."

Well, Mr Goodger, I agree. As Liberal Democrats, we are certainly no fans of the current planning system.

The fact the unaccountable planning inspector in Bristol can overturn the wishes of local representatives elected by people here in Kingston is totally unacceptable and the sooner the Government changes this, the better.

As the administration here, we have done what we can to make planning more democratic within what the law allows.

That is why we changed the system to allow the public to speak on planning applications.

However, the fact remains that only the Government has the power to make our planning system truly democratic.

COUNCILLOR SIMON JAMES

Executive Member for Planning and Regeneration, Kingston Council