Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Parish Council objects to current application.
Before the debate took place the results of the questionaire, handed out at the two displays organised by the council, were run through. There were two overwhelming themes; one was that the gap must be protected from development, the other was that no one believes a word that Persimmon/Pegasus Planning says - no real surprises there then!!

I, along with four other councillors, was effectively banned from taking part in the debate by the Standards Committee at West Wilts District Council. The rules under which councillors now have to operate have become increasingly oppresive and are viewed by many as a gag to real local democracy.

A proposal was made to object to the principal of the road, but this was defeated. Debate then moved to the detailing of the proposed road it was decided to object on the following grounds: 1. More landscaping/bunding is required alongside the road. 2. The road surface should be low-noise, despite the protestations of the highways department at County Hall. 3. The Middle Lane junction should be improved to make crossing safer for pedestrians and horse riders. 4. Facilities at other pedestrian crossing sites should be improved with the proposed stiles finding no favour. (I understand that Pegasus were expecting this objection and have already amended the application filed at the district council).

Voting was five in favour and two against.

I must emphasise that the parish council is a 'statutory consultee' in the planning process - the final decision will be made by the district council planning committee at a meeting to be held in the Civic Hall probably in January next year. As soon as I have a definite date I will post it on this site.