It was with dismay that I learned planning permission had been granted to build garages and flats and make a number of other alterations in the gardens of Villa Chapelle, in St Paul’s Bay.

On seeing this notice the other day I made a telephone call to be sure and, after being transferred to several persons, I discovered planning permission had been granted last year.

It is unfortunate that people in the area thought a permit had been refused. I know that my friend will lose light in her living room as it overlooks the garden.

I think it is a disgrace that this is being allowed. Why build in the area at all? The villa should be protected. There are hundreds of empty flats in this area and all over the island.

What is the planning authority’s agenda? Is Mepa more concerned with pleasing the conclave of builders and developers who appear to have quite a grip on this island?

Does one qualify even if one has no idea of conservation?

These people are taking away all the beauty and heritage from the future children of this island.

What we inherit is only lent to us to conserve, not destroy.