Follow up note from Cnllr Jeff Rodin on objections to the proposed development at 499 Green Lanes

Jeff Rodin writes:

I am now really concerned about what local residents are being asked to do apparently by "Improving Our Place".

Yesterday I received through the door yesterday a flyer urging local residents to object to the "stopping up order".In the flyer there was no mention of who the flyer is published by, nor any contact name for a concerned resident to get in touch with. But of much greater concern is that there was no mention of the financial issue that could be involved for someone who continues to pursue their objection if that is ultimately considered to be an unreasonable objection. If their objection is held to be unreasonable they can become liable not only for their own costs but also those of the developer.

I have received strong indication that if any objections are not withdrawn, the developer may decide to exercise the right to have the matter determined at a public enquiry. In that event as the developer is likely to be ultimately successful, (the development already has planning permission with a condition that the access includes the relevant part of the footpath), the costs that may be recovered from objectors may be considerable. This danger should be clearly explained in any flyer that is urging people to object.

I am sure that those who are involved in "improving our place" are responsible members of our local community, keen to play a part in preserving the best of what we have and building on that. In this instance, however, there is the real danger that by asking people to object in a situation where the battle is already lost, concerned residents are irresponsibly being encouraged to put themselves at considerable financial risk.
I urge you to do what you can to ensure that all the risks are explained to those who may be thinking of objecting.

Your sincerely
Jeff Rodin