Now we know that £2million has to be paid, from the public purse, to continue a scaled-down phase 2 of Charles Street.

Let’s all agree that the scheme should continue, as it will provide 600 well-needed jobs in Dorch-ester, provided by Waitrose, Marks & Spencer and other store developments.

Now let us turn to the sale of Stratton House, originally thought to be worth £3.5million?

But now we are told in the current financial climate that it will raise £1million if it is sold?

WDDC is one of the wealthiest district councils in England (size of its reserves estimated at £40million) this money mainly from the council house sales to housing associations.

What do we need most in Dorchester? Jobs, shopping centre and affordable housing.

A common sense Answer: – Sell the ‘Titanic’ (council offices and new library) to a housing association for affordable housing/flats, which will bring extra footfall and customers to the new shops!

You ask what about Stratton House? Leave it as council offices, and the existing library is adequate. The people of Dorchester did not want them.

Think about it, shopping centre, jobs and affordable housing.

It makes sense; it’s not too late to change for the better.

B. Thompson, Fordington High St, Dorchester