I WAS delighted to read the public-spirited comments by Burnley people in the article Residents back demolition (LT, March 30).

It featured several people from Melrose Avenue, Hargher Clough, saying they understood the need to demolish their homes to make way for the proposed new Hameldon Community College building.

Some people are trying to rubbish our plans to build new schools for the future of Burnley.

But the generosity of spirit shown by the people the LT spoke to in Hargher Clough demonstrates that most citizens understand the value of a £250million education building programme.

It can only be positive for our school pupils and for the town's economy.

Thank you to the people of Melrose Avenue for supporting the community.

Your legacy will be a happier and better educated Burnley.

MARCUS JOHNSTONE, Cabinet member for Children and Young People, Lancashire County Council.