PATRICK Moylan, in last week’s letters page, rightly challenged election candidates to state their position on the proposed Chesterton development.

Here is our clear position. We accept that housing is needed. There is a huge gap in affordability between the average salary and the average house price in the Cotswolds – and especially so for younger people.

Cirencester has to take a share of new housing, but it must be a fair share. The suggested figure of 2,350 homes is way over a fair distribution around the district. We have already supported ‘Save our Cirencester’ and will continue to do so.

The proposal is too big. It needs to be reduced. How? By sharing out small-scale developments around the area.

Villages have in some cases asked for small developments to provide affordable housing and have been told they’re not ‘sustainable.’ But, if those villages which want development don’t get it, how do they retain services, attract young people and families?

Communities which want such development must be allowed to do so and this should form part of the Local Plan. Brownfield sites must also take priority, rather than usable farmland.

Cirencester also needs better infrastructure. The sewage system is creaking – it needs improvement.

We want the council to really listen to people who are concerned about this proposal. The Chesterton development cannot be a done deal.

PAUL HODGKINSON

Lib Dem prospective MP for the Cotswolds

JOE HARRIS

Lib Dem group leader on Cotswold District Council