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Letters - 22 May 2007
Hilltown has lost its character


Whilst VISITING Hilltown recently I was saddened to see how its character has been allowed to rot and vanish.

The few, smart, new housing developments are lost amongst the depressing trail of dilapidated properties, giving residents a dismal view and its youngsters nothing to take pride in, or learn from.

Whilst other areas such as the Perth Road or Broughty Ferry have kept their character, why has this main thoroughfare into Dundee’s metropolis been seemingly abandoned? Its vitality is gone, but the potential is still there.

Indeed the Gates Project around the clock at the top of Hilltown, involving the local community and schools, shows an initiative which should be utilised all the way down.

This area could be a prime site for modern businesses and employers. It could even be renamed Hilltown Boulevard, blending tradition with progress.

At present it is an eyesore, crying out for a facelift. — Christine Robertson, Ellengowan Drive, Dundee.

What will happen to Kingsway?
Can THE Tele please find out the answers to the following questions regarding the new road layout for the Morrisons supermarket at Linlathen.

Is the double roundabout on the Kingsway and the Forfar Road/Fountainbleau Drive roundabout to be removed and replaced with traffic lights?

Is there to be direct access on to the trunk road from the supermarket?

Will the supermarket be allowed to open before all the new access roads and traffic lights are complete?

Will there be 24-hour working to complete the new roads and traffic management system?

What are the temporary traffic management proposals to allow the new layout to be installed? — Gridlock.

[A spokeswoman from BEAR Scotland said, “In order to satisfy the planning conditions imposed as part of the planning approval for the new Morrisons supermarket, the developer has proposed that the double roundabout on the Kingsway and the roundabout at Forfar Road/Fountainbleu Drive be removed and replaced with traffic signals.

“It is not envisaged there will be any direct access from the supermarket to the trunk road network.

“The planning approval states that the new access roads and traffic signals must be in place prior to opening of the supermarket.

“Some 24-hour working has been proposed by the developer within draft proposals submitted for consideration.

“However, any definitive proposals for 24-hour working will require to be considered in consultation with affected residents and with due consideration of excess noise levels which will require to be compliant with Dundee City Council policies for maximum levels of noise disruption during overnight periods.

“Draft proposals have been submitted by the Developer’s Agent for consideration by BEAR Scotland Ltd, Dundee City Council and emergency services. However, no definitive traffic management arrangements are agreed as yet.”

The Tele contacted Morrisons, but they had not replied by the time of going to press.]

What should he talk about?
George Aimer suggests Dundee West MP Jim McGovern, should stick to local issues. He mentions crime in the area, but policing falls within the remit of councillors.

If a member of British Parliament cannot comment on Scottish, British or, indeed, international issues, then on what does Mr Aimer think he can comment? — Mrs Jill Smith, Dundonald Street, Dundee.

Kitchen blinds problem
I recently had blinds fitted by Tayforth Blinds. Three sets of blinds cost me £130. Two are perfectly fine but the third set are awful.

They were hung in my kitchen and interfere with my taps, making it impossible to leave them open.

I have contacted the firm at least 20 times to no avail.

I eventually spoke to the manager who sent someone up. He took another measurement and assured me they would be fitted within a week.

That was two weeks ago. This man then went on holiday. I am taking this further. — Y. McLaren.

[We have advised Tayforth Blinds of the complaint, and they have sorted the blinds to Miss McLaren’s satisfaction.]

Poor service from bus driver
Recently I boarded my usual 32 bus to the city centre and paid my fare.

The female bus driver did not acknowledge me as she was busy reading a magazine.

The bus left the terminus five minutes late and as she pulled away a young girl ran for the bus.

Two people shouted to the driver to wait but she pulled a face and sped away. — Travel Sick, Dundee.

[A spokesman for Travel Dundee said, “I must admit to being disappointed that our customer experienced this sort of behaviour from one of our drivers.

“Our whole leaning is to ensure we make travel simpler for our customers and to treat them with courtesy and respect.

“Senior management at the company will obviously be issuing renewed guidance on this matter.”]

Asset to Dundee
Congratulations TO Showcase The Street for another fantastic show at the Whitehall Theatre.

The dancing and singing was brilliant! Not only that, we were privileged with the appearance of the X Factor’s McDonald Brothers, who had everyone on their feet.

Showcase the Street is an asset to the city and one of the many talented dance schools. You should be very proud of yourselves. — Happy Spectator.

THE ADDRESS for readers’ letters is - Readers’ Page, Evening Telegraph, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL. They can also be placed in our post box at our offices in Albert Square, Dundee, emailed to us on letters@eveningtelegraph.co.uk or faxed on 01382 454590. We ask correspondents using a nom-de-plume or sending by e-mail to provide a name and address for reference purposes. The editor reserves the right to reject or edit any letter. Please keep letters as short as possible.*
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