IT is good to have the new bridge open and even to see the 7.5-tonne weight limit removed.

Strangely, however, many of the shopkeepers in the High Street have reported a downturn in business since the bridge was opened, even with Easter.

This brings up the question of the Waitrose proposal that Wychavon is putting forward.

It does seem wrong that the main investor in this proposal, Wychavon District Council, should be the planning authority making the decision as well.

Wychavon has sold its investment in Waitrose, which it developed in Droitwich, and wants to repeat the exercise in Evesham.

It will cause traffic congestion, extensive use of the long-term car park used by business people, and won't particularly aid trade in Evesham.

Will the car park be free, or will Waitrose reimburse you your car parking fee?

I submit it is an altogether unacceptable scheme that will cause traffic problems (as has happened with M&S in Worcester Road); unnecessary rebuilding of the fire station, which has only just been renovated, and wrong location for any ultimate growth.

I believe Waitrose is not particularly keen, but is being attracted by an attractive and expensive offer from Wychavon.

I suggest that there are better locations for a new supermarket.

M Stephenson (Mrs)

Evesham