WITH reference to Mr Wade's "City of our Dreams" (LET, December 31).

This includes the demolition of the semi-derelict market and shopping centre which 40 years ago was the jewel in the crown for Blackburn.

The state of the property was caused by decades of neglect by the council of the year.

Six tower blocks have also been demolished after four decades of neglect. This refurbishment, if it takes place, will suffer the same fate.

Why not spend the money on road repairs, white line marking, roadside drain cleaning, making good footpaths and bridleways, last but not least kids' play areas?

I also dream of good old Darwen (pre-1973) the local people are very friendly, but sadly the town is also suffering from neglect.

F CROMPTON (Mr), Lightbown Street, Darwen.