“A DEBATE on a planning decision which “diminished the democratic process” had councillors questioning the constitution process and delegated powers given to planning officers.
Councillor Sam Robinson put forward a notice of motion in last Monday’s full Torridge District Council (Feb 7) meeting, to have the monitoring officer re-assess their constitution and develop a protocol that will overcome what he believes “is the present lacuna and democratic deficit”.
Mr Robinson told a packed town hall the catalyst was a planning application refused by the plans committee on a five-two vote.
The application, by Turley, for up to 200 homes in Heywood Road, Northam, was refused – then an appeal was lodged but planning officers said they would not be defending the appeal.
East Devon Watch 