SIR — I am appalled by the changes in Great Wood on the Quantocks.

Had the area been in the same category as a listed building, planning permission would never have been granted to ruin it in such a way.

The Quantock Hills have been designated an AONB, the N standing for natural. But there is nothing natural about tarmacamed paths, parking meters or huge display boards everywhere. It has joined the category of theme parks and is just another tourist facility.

I can't imagine where so much funding in the present time of financial restraint has been found to finance the ruination of these beautiful woods.

Is it anticipated payment from the car parking charges?

Having walked regularly in Great Wood since coming to live in Somerset in the early 1980s, I will certainly not be doing so any more, nor will any of the other locals to whom I have spoken about this matter.

I suppose tourists will be bussed there and coach companies will have to include this cost along with that for the never ending price rises in petrol in the cost of their tickets, but it saddens me that people will no longer be able to spend the day walking in Great Wood and enjoying it in its natural state.

Lee Gibbins.

Holford.