THE people of Swindon need to be cautious in fully embracing the euphoric report (Honda boom will bring more top firms to town, SA September 29).

While it is reassuring for present Honda workers to know that their jobs (hopefully) will be fully secure for the next few years, an increase of the workforce by 700 will have serious wider implications.

The knock-on effect of an increase in production at Honda, plus more major companies moving here will cause major problems for the people and the environment of Swindon.

Unemployment in Swindon is relatively low, so the majority of new workers will have to come from outside the town either moving in or commuting some distance to work.

There is already a severe shortage of affordable housing for key workers in Swindon.

Any expansion will make it even more impossible for first time buyers to get houses. Swindon Council has only promised 350 affordable houses a year.

Massive industrial and residential development will mean an even greater strain on diminishing water reserves in the area.

Also there will be a strain or lack of major infra-structure such as sewage, power, hospitals and schools which are already facing difficulties from the over expansion of Swindon in the last 30 years.

Do we need increasing vehicles clogging up our roads and polluting our atmosphere?

Most of the increased Honda production is for gas-guzzling 4 by 4s and two-litre plus engined vehicles. With oil production peaking increased motor transport of existing types is not a future option.

If Swindon Council has any inkling of wanting a greener borough they will have to seriously reconsider their existing growth at all costs policy, which at the moment will wreak further damage both locally and globally.

BILL HUGHES Chairman Swindon Green Party Swindon