However, reading closer into the report, it appears of the 1,250 new jobs at BT, 450 will be existing jobs transferred from the council.

Is this a further extension of the privatisation of even more council functions?

I look forward to the savings and more effective council services heralded by the report being reflected in a reduced council tax, but I will not hold my breath.

With regard to the development of Harton Staithes, I hope planners will not permit any more monstrosities like the Garlands building.

I am also concerned at claims made about the number of jobs to be created.

Rick O'Farrell, head of enterprise and regeneration at the council, in the Gazette on July 11 claimed Garlands could ultimately create 1,000 jobs, but so far there has been 100.

Again, the BT HQ could create 1,250 jobs over 10 years, presumably including the 450 transferred from the Town Hall.

I fear there is a lot of smoke and mirrors here. I hope I am wrong.

Edward Russell,
Cauldwell Place,
South Shields.