Embarrassing pretenceat democratic debate

There are no ‘Rye Planners’. They long ago became extinct.

The planning meeting referred to in the article discussed the Tesco application without any expert advice neither from our many citizens who practice or have practised as architects and surveyors, nor from the District and County Councils (who are obliged if requested to supply their expert opinions).

The few councillors present discussed the application without preparation, without much understanding of the major issues and, above all, without any attempt to have consulted with the citizens who elect them - especially those most affected by the intended plan.

An official site meeting with visits to nearby houses would in any well-run Parish Council be the very least expected duty.

This was the most embarrassing pretence at democratic debate and decision I have ever witnessed.

Unfortunately the majority of councillors do not themselves seem to share this embarrassment.

JOHN HOWLETT

Love Lane, Rye