Martin Payne, of Ember Road, Salcombe, writes:

As a local to Salcombe for 56 years I have been fortunate to spend much of that time either on the water, or watching my lifetime interest, sailing.

However, nothing can compare to the view of the Salcombe Estuary as you walk out through Fore Street and look out towards the famous Salcombe 'Bar' and Blackstone Rock. A view that takes your breath away.

But now times have changed and new build's are killing the Salcombe tradition.

We are being over-run by major developers who are granted unbelievable planning applications.

Although there are many to complain about, the one I refer to is at the Old Marine Hotel. Over what used to be an indoor swimming pool, there is now a high-pitched roof that completely blocks the view from Cliff House Gardens of the estuary.

How did anyone give permission for such a design which means the joy of many, to sit in the gardens or stand in the street watching the sailing and all the on-the-water activities, is no longer possible?

I'm afraid it's the old story of 'money talks'.

A great shame that such a fantastic view is lost forever.