First the quality and thoughtfulness of the points made by the visiting public were impressive.Some of the post-its are shown below.
Why indeed does it cost SLDC an average of £405/week to maintain a toilet. This is incredible and surely shows gross mismanagement.
Second, why are we spending £24,000 on a consultation. One fears that it's going to be money down the drain resulting in a beautiful report with no action whatever.
The last time we had a consultation a year ago has resulted in nothing. Even the simple unanimous request for a sign in Market Street to the underused car park at Stockbridge Lane has been ignored. This inspite of the repeated assurances of the County Councillors at the time that we should "leave it to us".
We did. - Nothing.
We raised it at a subsequent SLDC cabinet meeting. - "The subject was under review"
Consultations a rapidly becoming a dirty word. Initially we feel pleased to be consulted then this leaves a sour taste in our mouth as we realise no action is forthcoming.
It is essential that the politicians are honest with the public and spell out before a consiultation just what is feasible so that false expectations aren't raised.
What money is available to implement the suggestions made by the public?
To be continued:
We want more control of not only our toilets but our Tourist Information Centre, the illegal car parking policy and particularly our town's car parks.
The SLDC want to ditch their responsibilities without surrendering a major source of income, badly administered, Car Parking Fees.
Town Councillor Colin Williams makes a comment on his blog
