IT must be well over three years since I wrote to you sharing my concerns over the very narrow pavement and concrete slab retaining wall that were constructed as part of the new Manor development along the existing Old Launceston Road.

The pavement was so narrow it was more of a plinth and the slab wall did not match any surrounding construction. However it has provided some form of support to the bank and has allowed pedestrians some safety.

Before we went on holiday at the end of June we were informed that the road would be closed to allow a new retaining wall to be constructed.

Unfortunately we have arrived home to find that a Hollywood film set company has obviously been employed to recreate the 'OK Corral' for a re-make of some Western film by placing rather rustic vertical wooden poles to form a retaining wall. We now just wait for the cowboys and the film cameras to arrive.

Firstly I would ask how someone has been allowed to build something so totally out of keeping with its surroundings, particularly bearing in mind the extensive works that other developers and individuals have had to undertake when constructing similar walls in sympathetic materials such as dressed or random stone.

Secondly one has to call into question the sensibility of placing timber, albeit treated, against a permanently damp face that will, I am sure, only last a short time before more extensive replacement is required.  

Is it that any such replacement for the timber wall will then fall upon the local authority whilst the developer has got away with supplying such a cheap, short term and totally unsuitable option?

We shall see.

Iain Andrews

Inswell Court

Tavistock