Planning Policy Manager, Matt Dickens, and IT support officer, Martin Lee, were alone to answer questions at today’s examination of the crucial topic of Housing in the new Local Plan. “We could have been crudely arithmetic”, stuttered Mr Dickens, as he struggled to explain why an extra 4,000 houses had been added to the 11,000 provision recommended in the Roger Tym report. Seeking clarity, the Planning Inspector suggested, “You have no evidential basis for 4,000, you just made it up.”

A pity that not a single Councillor from the ruling party, was interested enough in this fundamental topic, to attend the hearing. Matt Dickens’ senior colleagues were similarly conspicuous by their absence….presumably earning their keep elsewhere? Click here for a reminder of their responsibilities: http://www.eastdevon.gov.uk/smt_structure_chart_2012_internet-_amended_nov_2012.pdf