WE read with interest your article in the Andover Advertiser of 23 January regarding the Ford Cottage.

This building will never be a replica of the cottage, all we have is a few original bricks to build a fireplace, and the developer says that 75 per cent of the original timber is being used. With a new timber roof, new green oak frame, I think that percentage is too high.

In October 1996 the Advertiser described Ford Cottage as a ‘house of horrors’. Cllr Rod Bailey said and I quote, “This cottage has become a thorn in our side, we have already lost three plans to develop this site through problems associated with this cottage.”

This development has been an unnecessary cost to the developer who has to try to sell a four bedroom house, no garden, no garage and a wall at least 12 feet high at the rear, about eight feet away from the house. What type of person will wish to buy this property?

This building has spoilt the approach to the church, the lovely blossom trees have been cut down, and they were wonderful last summer. The large yew tree at the side overhanging the roof of the house will certainly fill the gutters with its berries, still, that is ‘planning’ for you.

Joan and Norman Eades, Red Post Lane, Weyhill.