I AM writing to clarify the situation about the rest room reprieve. Being passed at planning inspectorate level is an important victory against these developers.
The planning inspectorate dismissed both appeals.
Policy ST1 of Devon Structure Plan 2001 to 2016 includes a requirement to meet the needs of the community and be provided for in locations most accessible to those who need them.
Mr Pope, the inspector, accepted the room was, and I quote, of 'considerable importance to the elderly — in terms of social interaction' and 'being of significant value to the local community.
'Given the predicted increase within the borough of over 55s I see no reason why in future the popularity of this meeting room would do anything other than increase.'
And lastly 'Its loss would deprive a large and growing section of the community of a valuable facility. The proposal would seriously harm the social well-being of many residents.'
He goes on to call the Anchorage Centre 'inconvenient'.
This is not a half-victory, this is total victory — against the odds a government body has seen all the relevant points that people in Tavistock never doubted.
The only challenge to this decision must be made at High Court, London, and can take up to six months. The notice to quit is now a tenant/landlord issue. As tenants of long standing, by being elderly and because of all the above reasons, they are in an excellent position.
Mrs Sian King
Tavistock Pannier Market
A BIG thank you must be extended to everyone who worked so hard to try to secure the future of the over 60s Rest Room in its present location. Its closure is a sad loss to the community.
Mrs Barbara Pine
11 Lockeridge Road
Bere Alston