I WEITE in reference to Coun Margaret Leicester's letter The facts behind quarrying issue' (Echo, May 15).

I have been a resident at The Grove for seven years, previously living in the Southwell area for 30 years. I am also a true Portlander born and bred on the island for at least three generations.

While living at the Grove I spoke to Coun Leicester at my own concerns of the impending quarrying in the Grove area. The reply I verbally received was a basic you have to expect that sort of thing living on the island'.

Now the quarrying is due in Coun Leicester's home area we have web sites to visit and petitions to sign.

Quarrying produces income, jobs and the rugged coastline that attracts visitors to the island in the first place.

Tout Quarry, among others, is a regular stop off point, many people walk the whole island coastline not just Southwell to Portland Bill.

Open spaces breed housing estates which I'm sure are worse - with a quarry provision is made to ensure it is reverted back when finished.

Maybe working with the stone firms, not against them, is the way to go? There could be agreement on lorry times, safety, dust spraying etc. Resources and time are better spent talking together not against each other and may achieve a mutual result.

Mrs Cormack, Grovefields, Portland.