I understand that Richmond Council is planning to close Latchmere Lane.

Why is Richmond Council intending to take such drastic action to destroy an ancient right of way our local community has enjoyed for generations?

I have lived in the Ham Gate area of Kingston for more than 20 years and throughout have enjoyed the proximity of Ham Common and Richmond Park. If Latchmere Lane is closed I will feel disconnected from these areas of natural beauty that are cherished by my neighbours and me.

In addition many of your readers will find a new barrier to their local facilities such as hospitals, schools, churches and shops. For most of us this will cause further erosion in our quality of life. Surely there has been a mistake? Richmond Council cannot cut a right of way that has connected our local communities for over 250 years?

KEITH PALLETT

Latchmere Road

Kingston.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.