Sir, Sir Stuart Lipton (letter, Mar 12) uses the term “Nimby” to mean anyone opposing development in their immediate area. Yet by no means all objectors are motivated by selfishness. People generally know their area as well or better than architects and planners, and are quite capable of distinguishing between good and bad schemes. Their ability to prevent development is, I suggest, exaggerated. What is particularly depressing is that individuals and parish councils often make constructive suggestions, but their views are disregarded. Small wonder, then, that the planning process is viewed by many with cynicism, and the so-called Nimbys resort to blanket opposition.
Michael Lockett
Palgrave, Norfolk