BEFORE Martyn Race (Letters, October 1) goes off on a tangent, he should get his facts right.

When the planning decision on Puccino's deli-bar was determined, there was no support for it coming from the public -- that came afterwards.

As for planning for the future, what does Mr Race think a Local Plan is all about?

Do not criticise the council because of the policies of the county council. I can assure you that Blackburn with Darwen Council is well prepared for the future.

Planning matters are extremely controversial and always will be.

COUN FRANK CONNOR, chairman, Planning and Highways Committee, Blackburn with Darwen Council), Duxbury Street, Darwen.