SIR — Your readers are no doubt aware that Dean and Dyball have now submitted a formal application to build 18 luxury houses, 5,000 square feet of commercial units and a community facility on Watchet's East quay (Free Press December 21).

I have no quarrel with the units (though there is little evidence that they are required or viable) and I have long argued for more and better community facilities. The houses are another matter.

Thanks to the efforts of the late (and sorely missed) Bob Watts, I have a petition signed by 2,000 Watchet residents objecting to the inclusion of the houses in the scheme.

I know that Dean and Dyball have to recover their cash investment in the marina, but there are alternative sites in Watchet where houses could be built (and perhaps houses more appropriate to our needs).

The East Quay is needed for a scheme which will make the marina an attractive place to keep a boat, which will generate real employment and provide facilities for the community, including the young.

More and more people are asking me what they can do to help save Watchet from the fate which the council and the developers seem determined to impose on us.

For myself, I am appealing directly to the Secretary of State to take control of the planning application or order a local public enquiry. For those uncertain what to do, here is a checklist:

(1) Write directly to the West Somerset District Council planning office, quoting reference 3/37/01/107, saying why you object to the housing element of the application.

(2) Write or telephone the district councillor who is supposed to represent you on the planning committee.

(3) Write to or telephone all or any of the town councillors.

(4) Attend any public consultation meetings held by the town council or by the regeneration partnership.

(5) Let your friends and neighbours know how you feel and encourage them to do at least one thing on this list.

Neither the council nor Dean and Dyball seem to understand the strength of public opposition to their plans.

Peter D Capper,

Swain Street,

Watchet.