It’s said that those who don’t learn from the past are destined to repeat it. It looks very much as though history is about to repeat itself on Station Hill in Chippenham with the granting of a licence for the site of the former Karma nightclub.

This despite strong objections from the police, local councillors, local residents and local businesses, all of which were effectively ignored, in what seems to be unfathomable decision making. Of course, the Wiltshire Council licensing sub-committee, which gave the green light, won’t suffer the consequences themselves; the likely resulting misery – noise, public urination, vomit on pavements, damage to property and general anti-social behaviour – will be borne by the people who live nearby.

As for granting this nightclub a licence on the grounds of ‘boosting the night-time economy’, we have to ask ourselves what kind of night time economy we want in Chippenham. This kind?

Or one that allows people of all ages to enjoy bars, restaurants and cafes in a safe and civilised environment.

Nick Murry, Monkton Park, Chippenham.