I MUST congratulate Mr Roger Mathew on, once again, penning a letter (Times, May 31) of erudition and perception, soundly based upon principles of planning law and the democratic representation of the people.

Certainly, an attempt to take legal action regarding the present planning situation which exists regarding the old 'Focus' site cannot, in my opinion and that of many councillors, be classed as being one of West Devon Borough Council's better decisions.

There is however, one phrase he uses in his letter with which I must take issue — the words 'for an entire council to lose the plot so spectacularly'.

The fact is that this was not so — as the recorded voting figures (reported in the Times, May 24) confirm; for 15 voted in favour of the motion to pursue the legal challenge, 11 voted against and one abstained — thus a small majority in favour.

Still, it did mean that the motion was carried and now, legally becomes council policy.

The other point made by Mr Mathew, along with Cllr Brian Trew in his powerful letter, is that there was no reason why the decision had to be taken in part two (behind closed doors). With hindsight, I feel they are right.

There would appear to have been no legal need for the exclusion of the electors and press. Indeed, if they had been present, the former would have witnessed and the latter reported on, a full and frank debate in which sound, honestly held opinions were expressed by many on both sides of the argument — the democratic process would have been there in full and clear view.

In the future it must be ensured that we borough councillors go 'in camera' only when the law demands it.

Ted Sherrell

West Devon Borough and Tavistock Town Cllr

Tavistock