Isn t it time the planning authorities started doing their job again? After years of so-called permitted development, monstrosities and eye-sores have sprung up across Barnet, with neighbours seemingly vying with each other for the prize for ugliness and

Isn't it time the planning authorities started doing their job again? After years of so-called permitted development, monstrosities and eye-sores have sprung up across Barnet, with neighbours seemingly vying with each other for the prize for ugliness and lack of taste.

Ham&High readers probably have an example right next to their house. It seems that anything goes and nothing is required to blend in with existing buildings.

When I compained to an architect some years ago about his warehouse-styled creation, his response was: Do you expect Barnet to check every plan?

Well yes. If it's about maintaining the best standards for future generations, who will not thank us for our neglect.

Derek Coltman

North End Road NW11