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In response to the writers enquiry. As was reported by this publication on 17th November (prior to the Development Control Committee meeting) fellow Ward counciller Stuart Peall and myself had both written in support of the application and Members of the Committee were fully aware of this. Due to business committments away from home neither of us could guarantee to be present to speak but fortunately I was able to arrive in time to hear the debate. The additional support from local Parish Councillors was most welcome and indeed helped sway the case in favour. It seems to me that we all played our part in achieving the right decision for the North Downs East Ward.

Cllr David Godfrey

What a silly story this is and why does the author feel the need to remain anonymous? The Care Home application was passed by a big majority by the Development Control Committee and I doubt very much if they were greatly swayed by oratory from former district councillors Callahan and Tearle.

The real point of 'name and address supplied' seems to be to attack the present district councillors as well as the County Councillor (me). A County Councillor has no right to be heard for a planning application at Shepway District Council. Quite exceptionally I arranged to be substituted for the local members when the Doctors' Surgery plans were heard as I had helped my District Council colleagues in smoothing the path of that very important application. KCC does much joint work with the NHS and the doctors had asked for my help which I was happy to give. I don't recall either David Callahan nor Colin Tearle speaking for that application. I don't attack them for that and 'name and address supplied' might consider that the 3 minute slot before the Development Control committee is not the only nor always the most effective way of helping a planning application.

Is Localrags once again going to allow anonymous personal attacks? I do hope not. I think Hawkinge deserves better than that.

Susan Carey