SIR - The controversial planning application for a new petrol station on the site of the old Prince of Wales pub in Eccleshill has now been passed by the Bradford Area Planning Panel (T&A, February 28).

The report stated that "four members voted to approve the plans, one voted against, and two members abstained".

Just what is the point of councillors being on a planning panel if they are unwilling to make a decision, and instead abstain?

All such councillors should, in my view, not be permitted to sit on future panels unless there are very good reasons for any abstention.

Bob Watson, Springfield Road, Baildon