Moorgate 'desecrated' by ugliness and scars

Not so long ago Moorgate was one of the most green and attractive entries a town could wish for. Now desecrated by a surplus of street and road signs it is becoming just another boring urban throughway into what visitors may conclude is a boring town centre.

First the cycle-path to nowhere, taking away a few trees and strips of grass replacing them tarmac and white paint - for something too dangerous for use by children and families.

Then destruction of some fine old buildings to be replaced by flats and houses built far too close together and close to the highway. Chip, chip. A few more trees and a bit more grass are chiselled away. More houses with more cars having to get onto an already very busy road.

Now there is a proposal to knock down another beautiful old building, the former ambulance headquarters, to be replaced with five residential boxes. Times are hard, but we won’t come through by allowing style to be replaced by mediocrity.

If we value the town centre then understand that many visitors will approach it along Moorgate. I ask the council to act with class and preserve what remains of the town’s character.

Imminent changes to planning regulations allow communities to have more of a say. Please use them.

Philip Moss, Whiston Grove, Rotherham.

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