SIR – I along with many others attended the meeting last Friday to try and find out what was happening with the Hatfield town centre project. I was amazed to find out that the decision to put a hold on all activity was made some considerable time before

SIR - I along with many others attended the meeting last Friday to try and find out what was happening with the Hatfield town centre project.

I was amazed to find out that the decision to put a hold on all activity was made some considerable time before the public were notified, and we are talking weeks.

This very important information only came to light late on May 1, coincidentally the day of the local elections, and so leaves a tainted smell over the whole issue.

As an ex-leader of the authority I know that all information is given to a leader and especially on something as important as this project. There is no way he would not have been informed as soon as the developers made their decision, and bearing in mind meetings were going on with the developer a minimum of once every two weeks, not knowing just does not add up.

I think the people should be given a full explanation so they can decide if this information was sat on because of the effect it may have had on the local elections. I am sure I know why and like many others I do not like being a pawn in their game.

Andrew Tinsley, former Welwyn Hatfield Council leader (Lab).

Sir - Your feature on the regeneration of Hatfield town centre was right I think to blame past Conservative-controlled councils for the delay in regeneration. This should have taken place well before the more gloomy economic situation which will no doubt be blamed for the delay today.

I do think, unlike many of your interviewees, that if Hatfield had a modern, smart centre, with good shops and coffee houses, the people who currently drop litter, write graffiti and break windows, would have more respect for their surroundings.

Good local schools, like Green Lanes Primary teach children to respect each other and their surroundings. Parents need to follow this up at home by example, then we and the next generation can all enjoy a renewed Hatfield in the future.

Rosemary Humphreys,

Ellenbrook Lane, Hatfield.