Response from Dr Andrew Catley (Individual)
1. Dr Andrew Catley (Individual) : 3 May 2013 21:49:00
Please add your response below, quoting the main modification reference number: (limit 3000 words)
Response to revised DPD Main Modification ref MM 050
The inclusion of the Brigsteer site RN 213 in the revised Land Allocation DPD is unsound.
Brigsteer is a small rural community and should be excluded from development in line with the general approach of the DPD. The DPD reason for including Brigsteer relates to an apparently high level of community support, yet there is considerable local opposition to the development. The facts are that at the Helsington Parish Council meeting on 10/4/12, 31 people voted against the development, and 17-20 people voted in favour (depending on the development time-frame).
If the DPD is committed to reviewing evidence for each development option, then clearly, there is no evidence of sufficient community or involvement in the proposed Brigsteer site. Although the site may be supported by a self-appointed local land trust, this is not the official body for representing community views. It is unclear why the DPD is still struggling to interpret the results of the public voting at the Parish Council in April last year.
