PEGGY Breeds talks about the council not consulting on changes to town centres (Letters, June 18).

We have just spent nine months consulting on changes to Erith. The work is to enhance the area and clearly this includes being mindful of the needs of current residents and users.

Controlled parking zones are designed to balance residents’, visitors’ and workers’ needs.

If Mrs Breeds has a specific problem, she has not raised it with me. Police numbers are up and we have recruited 49 out of the promised 50 specials. They will be trained locally and be out on the streets following training.

I did say we are not into “slash and burn”, but Mrs Breeds suggests I am closing post offices. The council has no control over this private operation. I am keen to help local post offices but they will only stay if they are regularly used.

Lastly, we plant more trees than we remove.

I hope this covers all the complaints made, including those which were factually incorrect.

While we do not get everything right, Bexley has much to be proud of, including a good newspaper which allows people to air their views.

Councillor Chris Ball Leader of Bexley Council