Since losing the Public Inquiry on Marlborough's Angel Yard I have been approached by many residents who have assured me they would have supported the cause had they known what was happening.
I would like to sound a cautionary note with everyone.
The changes in Angel Yard were first included in the Waitrose planning application some five years ago.
Following the considerable discussion that surrounded the application, public notices have been posted in Angel Yard and the Press on more than one occasion.
The Gazette has published my letters to the editor on the subject and have also produced several reports.
I have personally posted notices in Angel Yard to both inform and request support the only response being from a resident of Town Mill who attended the public inquiry and opposed me because he doesn't like looking at our parked cars.
Town Mill has sufficient parking for both residents and visitors and I am left to wonder how altruistic this action was.
Not only do residents seem to be in the dark, the town council knew nothing of the public inquiry for Angel Yard until I informed it shortly beforehand.
Furthermore, they did not seem to follow the implications of building ten flats with only four car parking spaces or the proposed one-way system.
I believe planning authorities rely on public apathy and confusion in order to push through the changes and developments they, rather than local electorate, want.
Each and every one of us has a responsibility to be aware of what is happening in our locality.
Following that awareness with action is imperative if we are to take advantage of the democratic system that allegedly exists within local government.
Val Compton
Kennet Place
Marlborough
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