Dawlish News

Owner of Black Country Properties, Simon Steel Perkins, said: `Black Country Properties Limited submitted the Planning Application on September 1, 2003, for the Regeneration of Shutterton Bridge after many months of pre-application local consultation, together with a considerable amount of research and studies, including undertaking a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment in relation to the proposals.

`This application was a complex but important proposal for the local environment, economy and local community. We had expected the council to enter into a constructive dialogue in order to explore the opportunities and benefits that form an integral part of the scheme.

`Regrettably, it appeared that the Council were seeking to rush the determination of the application, which meant that there would have been insufficient opportunity to incorporate within the scheme any further mitigation measures which may have been necessary, and to provide clarification to consultees where appropriate. Black Country Properties, therefore, was concerned that, without the benefit of sufficient time and without thorough analysis of the benefits and opportunities, the council officers would be unable to make a fair and balanced recommendation to members.

`The company has therefore withdrawn the application and is currently considering its position. As far as our representations to the Local Plan Review are concerned, it appears the local community now faces the prospect of further delays through the adoption of the local development framework.'