Surprisingly, I agree with Eastleigh's Liberal Democrat MP Mike Thornton that there should not be gravel extraction in Hamble, as there is a better way by using dredging.

However, I could presume his disapproval is based on not wanting to lose votes (a matter that was also top priority to Councillor Keith House and former MP Chris Huhne), as it would look like the Liberal Democrat party had failed the Hamble residents.

Mr Thornton’s own comments regarding years of traffic disruption and harm to the local community and economy could be said of all major works or developments, such as the 1,400 houses on Botley Park golf course.

At least Mr Thornton should be grateful that he was able to make a representation to the government inspector, whereas the residents of Boorley Green, Botley and Hedge End have been denied that as premature planning was approved by a local Lib Dem council.

His last comments “that the council continue to betray the people of Hamble and local people have been sold down the river and that they had failed to listen to people and bulldozed through the plan” seems all too familiar.

Swap Hamble for Botley and you will know how local residents feel.

Elaine Furse, Botley.