YOUR readers may be interested to hear that the first moves in the preparation of a new structure plan for Devon are proceeding with the publication of an issues questionnaire. My association has been sent this questionnaire, but we are aware that most of your readers will not have received a copy.
Yet the questions asked relate to those very important issues that have dominated local news coverage over the past few years and stirred up healthy debates in your readers' letters columns.
Such issues as whether housing developments should take place on greenfield or brownfield sites; whether we should support traditional industries such as farming and fishing, or allow large-scale industrialists to move in, whether we would regenerate our urban areas or discard them and build new towns on Devon's countryside.
Whether we want the construction of massive new roads, or the proper maintenance of the existing road infrastructure backed by a better public transport system, and a properly restored footpaths and bridleways network. In essence, whether we should destroy all that is best in Devon for short-term expediency, or whether our quality of life is worth maintaining.
This really is the only chance that your readers are likely to get to influence the minds of politicians and planners. So we really would urge everyone to get involved with this important planning process.
You can request a copy of the questionnaire by writing to: Devon to 2016, Lucombe House, County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter EX2 4QW, or by telephoning 01392 382275 or emailing [email protected]">[email protected]
But please note that you only have until December 13 to send in your questionnaire. This really is your best chance to save Devon from piecemeal destruction.
John Bainbridge
Chief executive
Dartmoor Preservation
Association
Old Duchy Hotel
Princetown