Sir, Following the Cherwell planning committee meeting last Thursday, I would like to express my appreciation to councillor Hurle and his vote against planning permission to change Magnolia House, in Banbury Road, into a G4S administered children's home. The same cannot be said for the other Bicester councillors present.

Councillors Pickford, R Stratford and L Stratford provided vague, misleading information in support of the applicant.

Magnolia House is not in a town centre location. I recall the sign for Bicester being situated approximately 100m north of what is now Magnolia House. It is an over-modified three/four-bedroom property, communal space is limited and being home to six teenagers is going to prove challenging. The property also has insecure boundaries, which allow easy egress via neighbouring gardens.

G4S has no contract with Oxfordshire County Council to run such a children’s home; so where does the need for this home arise?

It was fairly inevitable that the application would be approved, but I feel it was without fair and just representation. When a councillor fails to recognise and support the views of the people within their community, we have to start doubting their loyalty.

When that councillor treats that community with indifference, it becomes clear that we have a civil duty and community responsibility to reject them. The residents of Bicester should note how they are being misrepresented at district council level and seek to elect others who truly care about our town and community.

I sought representation to ensure adequate provisions were established to minimise impact to the community and to alleviate fears and concerns for my family’s wellbeing. That support was not received from the majority of Bicester’s councillors present. I ask each of the three as to whose interests are really being served by their approval of this planning application?

Timothy Moore, Banbury Road, Bicester