MADAM – I admire many aspects of the local coverage by the Stroud News & Journal.

However, I think the SNJ position on the incinerator debate is a low point in sensible reporting and journalism.

We need look no further than the irrational views expressed in comment in the Wednesday, January 21 edition to illustrate the point.

Having listened and evaluated the arguments for the incinerator over recent years, I have concluded that it is needed and will be an effective technological solution to a mounting problem.

Regrettably, we live in an extremely wasteful society that shows little signs of changing.

Unlike many involved in this debate, I have seen at first hand in Holland an incinerator similar to that proposed here.

In speaking with Dutch friends to gain their views, they are strongly positive.

The building in Holland is less of an ‘eyesore’ than many may imagine.

I have being involved with the delivery of large projects in the UK in the past.

I have strong reservations that predicted future costs of alternatives to incineration can ever be accurate and are unerringly under-estimates in both cost and practicality.

As a member of what I believe is the, so far, silent majority, I live in the real world and believe we have to accept where we are on this issue.

There is no way I will support any cancellation move on the incinerator that incurs significant penalties with consequential negative impact on local services or jobs.

For the Stroud News & Journal to suggest otherwise in such a biased manner is irresponsible.

Gerry Moutrey

Hilltop

Editor’s note: Like you Mr Moutrey, we too are allowed a point of view, as are all the contributors to these letters pages.

We have long ago nailed our colours to the mast on where we stand on this issue and as the local paper, we have taken a stand against the incinerator.