Sir, - I read with interest the "In Times Eye" column of January 2nd on roadside planting and I share fully the comments expressed. There is one county council which I must honourably except, however. In the past year the Ballyouskill Improvement Association has embarked on a beautification programme for the village (more of a crossroads with a pub/grocery, a chapel of ease and a few houses).Stage one has consisted of the sowing of thousands of daffodils and bluebells along the approach roads, the reinstatement of hedgerows of whitethorn, blackthorn, etc. (missing for years due to road widening), and the planting of wild rose, woodbine and lilac.In stage two elder, oak, horse chestnut and other trees, now growing in temporary locations, will be introduced when roadside kerbing and markings are completed and the clay banks have stabilised.For all of this we must thank the staff of the planning division in Kilkenny County Council who have been unfailing in their encouragement, support and guidance for the local community effort. They are an example that many other councils would learn from. - Yours, etc.,Mary P. Brennan,Ballyouskill,Co Kilkenny.