IT IS not my policy to reply to letters in the paper, but in this case I would like to make the following statement.
At the future planning meeting referred to by M Bryant (Letters, May 6) I did not send my apologies. The fact is that I was substituted because it was known that I was going to vote against the core strategy. I am no longer on that committee. My feelings have been conveyed to the Leaders of West Devon Borough Council and I will be taking it further.
I would like to reassure the people of Okehampton that I do listen to their fears and concerns, they are also mine.
Christine Marsh
Okehampton Rural
I congratulate Edna Hicks for her letter (Times, April 29), speaking out about the concerns of various general publics' opinions, regarding the West Devon Borough Council on Monday April 19 on the core strategy.
It, was plain to see, that this meeting was indeed a rushed affair, with very little regard from some Councillors present as to the behaviour which was shown towards local residents present, whose properties are adjacent to the proposed development. They were treated with very little regard.
These councillors, who were elected by us, the public, should be reminded, who elected them in the first place - they are not one above everyone else. But because this core strategy is not on their doorstep - it obviously doesn't matter, but, would it if the tables were to be turned?
Okehampton as a town, has enough problems as it is, in the economic climate. The town is losing local shops, not a good advertisement as you drive through. It will take years to recover, as will the country in general. Surely, Okehampton does not need any more 'white elephants' to contend with, nobody can predict the future. Many local residents are already taking their business elsewhere.
Some local councillors have no vision for the future, as to the concerns of Okehampton, they will not be remembered for all the wonderful ideas they have for the town - sadly, it will be quite the reverse.
Peter Green
Councillor
Okehampton Hamlets