MADAM, I was pleased to read in the latest Gazette that the Ross Alms House Charity is planning a housing development behind Old Market Close on land in Cawdor. Especially as it will be an open market and social/low cost housing on land which is so close to the town.

Then I read that a disused, overgrown, crumbling railway arch stands in the way. I am even more surprised that some people want to preserve this eyesore of a bridge. Why?

It serves no useful purpose and the old Ross to Hereford railway line is well documented with the information display boards at Five Ways on the remains of the bridges. I am in full favour of preserving old buildings and structures, but preserve a scruffy old railway bridge, I think not.

If we are not careful there will soon be groups that want to preserve some of our larger pot-holes on our local roads. Pull down the bridge and build the much needed houses.

Stuart Harrold, Ross