MARY Clarkson (ViewPoints, April 18) responds to my “complaint” using perfect politician’s patter. There must be better solutions to resolve re-occurring problems.
I attended a parish council meeting in December 2012. Councillors admitted to the chairman that they didn’t understand details of planning submissions. (They were advised to attend planning training at the town hall). How can parish councillors be entrusted with power to make decisions on the public’s behalf without full knowledge and understanding of all issues?
The parish council meetings should not be held on the same evening as East Oxford Area planning meetings. Then the planning councillor will be able to attend parish meetings and ensure all necessary planning documentation is there.
The correct plans should be available before decision-making so that parish councillors visit the site and speak with involved parties.
Currently, it is difficult to contact councillors about planning issues even by phone or e-mail.
Local monthly meetings could easily be arranged at a central location and all proposed plans available to be viewed.
On May 2 the electorate may judge the decision-making of Dee Sinclair and Mark Lygo who currently hold councillor positions relating to Oxford city planning. They seek votes for a county councillor position too.
People will reflect on their choices in decision-making regarding all local planning, including school expansion and the repercussions now felt by ignoring locals’ opinion and the inadequate infrastructure provision.
ELAINE BENNETT Marston Road Oxford
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