Scheme a foregone conclusion

LETTER - I was at the meeting on May 6 when the planning application for St Matthew's Road, Donnington, was discussed.

Two representatives from Telford & Wrekin Council attended and listened to the strong concerns expressed by those of us present, representing the parish council and the community.

If that begins to sound like the actions of a listening local authority with an open mind on this project, second thoughts may be needed because we discovered three important things at the meeting.

First, the council has already exchanged contracts with the developer for the sale of the land for which planning permission is sought. Secondly, the only way the council can now back out of that contract is if it turns down the planning application and the developer chooses to walk away.

Thirdly, the council has already earmarked the proceeds of sale for an ongoing, over-budget office development.

For some reason, the words "foregone conclusion" come into my mind.

Vicar David Wright, St Matthews, Donnington Wood