I write with regard to the article in The Evesham Journal 13/6/2002, in which Mr Tom Smith of Wakering Engineering made comments concerning the recent planning application for an increase to the number of buildings and car parking at Evesham Marina.

I was contacted by a large number of residents in Kings Road, Drakes Lea and Lichfield Avenue, concerned about the increase in traffic congestion in that part of Bengeworth as a result of the Marina being expanded in the manner requested. I agree with those concerns.

Mr Smith claimed 'the councillors were given incorrect information. If Mr Smith had bothered to read the very factual and fully detailed report, produced by Wychavon District Council Planning Officers, he would have seen a great deal of information and as the report was produced some weeks before the planning meeting, he had ample opportunity to comment on it. Mr Smith also said 'We would not sell a single thing on this site that could be bought in Evesham'. 'We would not be selling groceries'.

Had Mr Smith bothered to look at his own application he would have seen shops, clearly marked, on the plans and details of the products intended for sale, ie books, maps, groceries, laundry, clothing, hardware, gas and chandlery.

Mr Smith's company obtained planning permission to extend the Marina Basin in 1998.

Most people support this. I suggest he should concentrate on putting that in place and let the shops in Port Street cater for the Marina customer's requirements.

Cllr Andrew Dyke, Evesham East - Bengeworth, Pershore Road, Evesham