WITH reference to the proposed development of the Locarno site, I am sure that most of the public in Old Town are unaware of the present plans going through the planning process. In essence, the plans are for conversion of the 1850s Market Hall/Corn exchange to be changed into a 117 bed hotel with underground parking. Included in the planning application is a seven-storey building on the adjoining site (council long stay car park) with an extra 94 apartments with penthouse on top. This new building will, in fact, overlook the Locarno and will be totally out of keeping with present housing in the area.

I have spoken to the planning department at Swindon Borough Council and they have confirmed my suspicions that this new block is needed to make the whole development a viable proposition ie: covering the expensive underground excavations for the car park and the refurbishment costs of the Locarno.

I am the first to agree that the Locarno needs to be preserved because we have very few old buildings left from the 19th century and it is quite attractive. However, this application needs to be refused because: 1. The new development (next to the Locarno) is not in keeping within an area of low rise housing; 2. It will become the highest point in Swindon and overlook the Locarno; 3. The traffic increase in Marlborough Road would be a dangerous development and is sure to cause accidents; 4. The access is where?

Finally, I realise that the property market is difficult at present and that an application to save the Locarno is welcome. However, I think that new developers for the Locarno and another for the adjoining site would be a more suitable outcome. We would not then be saddled with a monstrous seven storey building.

The Locarno has stood empty for quite some time and a little longer would be worth the wait for a more suitable outcome.

Objections to the plans have to be served by January 18, 2011 so there is little time left.

BOB ROBERTSON East Croft Lodge Old Town Swindon