I DO not object in principle to the establishment of a University at Swindon.

A town of this size with its links in all directions, is a natural focus point for the concentration of higher education facilities, hopefully in disciplines of fundamental rather than peripheral significance.

But it should be Swindon's University, not a satellite of someone else's.

Some 35 or so years ago, the idea of a University of Swindon was strongly mooted. But unfortunately the whole project died the death. But at least the idea was for a Swindon University and I believe that we should now be looking in that direction.

As far as the location is concerned let's not desecrate the vital rural buffer zone for Coate. The country park is one of Swindon's jewels. Have a university of course. Make it ours and keep it out of any attendant developments, away from our Coate Water.

E J BAMFORD

Covingham Park

Swindon