WE ARE continually hearing that we need so many thousands of houses to be built. I cannot understand this when there are so many empty places above shops that look as if they have been empty for years and may have side or back entrances. Why are these not being utilised?

Many people do not require gardens and there are so many properties on good bus routes. We should be using these properties rather than taking more green areas.

D Davies, Kidwelly Close, Cwmbran