SIR, ‘Didcot Gateway’, who ever thought up such a title? Presumably someone about 20 years old.

I completely agree with Mrs Kiley’s recent letter. But, of course, there is money to be made — by consultants, agents, developers and the council and that explains just about everything.

I was acquainted with the Great Western Hotel which occupied the site opposite the station — it never flourished in the years prior to its demolition.

As the manager told me once: “There is little passing trade, too small a resident population around it, few people wanted to stay here and there isn’t enough business to support two pubs within yards of each other.”

It was sad to see it gradually deteriorate and it is difficult to see how the proposed new hotel will succeed.

What is really wanted on the site is a bus station. This would remove the chaotic congestion experienced every morning and evening outside the railway station. Perhaps residential/office accommodation could feature above.

Sadly though, there’s not much money to be made out of a bus station. What Didcot certainly does not need is a skyscraper. Poor old Didcot!

Michael Page, London Road, Blewbury