The bitter row over development at Babbacombe Downs took another turn when the Torbay Development Agency admitted it didn’t consult a community partnership over the plans.
The controversy is over the redevelopment of public loos into a £400,000 fish restaurant on the Down. Torbay Development Agency chief executive Steve Parrock has officially apologised to the Babbacombe and St Marychurch Community Partnership over the lack of consultation.
Steve told the Herald Express: “Officers had intended to consult but I understand the scheduled meeting did not take place as envisaged.
“I can confirm the Babbacombe and St Marychurch Community Partnership was advised of the intention to seek private sector proposals via an email to stakeholders in May, 2008, and as far as I am aware no objections were received prior to the release of the current proposals in 2009.
“However, ‘notification’ does not constitute ‘consultation’ in my opinion. We should have consulted with the partnership but we didn’t and we apologise.”
Deputy mayor was keen to put the lack of proper procedures behind him and carry one regardless.
He said: “Let’s draw a line under all that and have proper consultation over the plans. We’re trying to help the Bay but if people don’t want it after seeing the detailed plans so be it. It will be up to the planning committee to decide.”
• Is the Babbacombe Downs conflict solely about the fish restaurant or are people also objecting to the high-handed manner of the council?
Come and enjoy Devon – book a hotel and get away!
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