I WOULD like to comment on your article 'Step forward for unusual shop scheme' (October 30). The Parish Plan published in 2005 emphasised the split in the parish to this controversial project. As borough councillor, I was approached by both sides and I concluded that there was a silent majority who were opposed.
The original shop/post office closed in 2001 because it was not used and therefore became unviable and a buyer was not forthcoming. Since 2001 the population has not grown significantly and I believe this elaborate scheme is too costly and too ambitious for the size of community it would serve. The feedback I receive is they consider spending £421,000 too exorbitant and they are happy with the existing facility in the village hall on two mornings a week.
The population of Exbourne and Jacobstowe is around 550, at least 45% of these residents live outside the village centres. I would suggest that those who have to use their cars to travel to a shop will not go to a village shop but go to supermarkets at Okehampton, Hatherleigh or North Tawton.
The plan is for the shop to be open 8am to 7pm weekdays and more limited hours at weekends run by a salaried manager and volunteers. It will mean a lot of volunteer hours and I question the long term commitment of volunteers.
I doubt whether any business person would invest £421,000 to build a village shop. In which case why spend taxpayers' money? Therefore, I am disappointed that those councils who have given grants have not delved deeper into its sustainability.
Dave Weeks
Independent Councillor West Devon Borough Council
Exbourne