Fresh chance to air views on development

THE proposal by the Fitzwilliam Trust Corporation for the relocation of the Cattle Market and other associated planning proposals, many affecting the residents of Old Malton, were displayed at an exhibition in Malton just before Christmas.

In representations I have received, it is clear that many people neither knew about, nor were invited to, the exhibition, yet the developers seemed to think that most people who did attend were in favour of their ideas.

On a number of grounds, there are serious concerns amongst residents, with plans for the new Cattle Market, Industrial Park (and, apparently, a brand new museum as well) in the Eden Camp area, housing on the Showfield and Peasey Hills as well as in Westgate, Old Malton.

First, flooding: even with the best will in the world, the amount of water coming off these new developments would all come through Old Malton potentially causing yet more inundations on the scale of what we experienced this time last year. None of which had anything to do with the river defences which held up well. A developer contribution to lessen the risks in the area is vital to avoid further problems, perhaps even diverting the run-off under the A169 direct to the River Derwent.

Secondly, traffic: the vehicular movements on Town Street, Old Malton, are already at unacceptable levels with many lorries in particular not taking advantage of the new Brambling Fields junction on the A64.

Thirdly, schools: it is clear that the vast increase in new housing in Malton, Old Malton & Norton will result in many new families arriving with children needing school places. What developer contributions will come out all these plans to ensure that there is enough room for them in both the towns’ and surrounding villages’ schools?

In a meeting I had with the developers recently, it was agreed that December’s exhibition was not enough and it will be staged again in Old Malton sometime late in February when consultancy work on flooding and traffic issues has been completed: this will be the opportunity for those affected to meet and talk with those wishing to put forward their plans.

Political posturing

From: Trevor Mumford, Rutland Drive, Harrogate.

IT seems hardly a single day goes by without some Parliamentary committee or other, Minister, either Government or Shadow, or some other Palace of Westminster jobsworth coming up with criticism, new targets and/or increased workload for such organisations as elements of the the NHS (usually), police, social services etc

Is it too much to hope that these individuals may one day take a good look at themselves and the negative impression given to the electorate by scenes of virtually empty benches in the Commons, the banal standard of debate and the behaviour of the “Honourable Members” which would often embarrass a member of a kindergarten class? Is this really the Mother of Parliaments in session? I think not (Tom Richmond, Yorkshire Post, January 25).

With well over a year to go to the next general election valuable parliamentary time in which serious debate could take place on how best to deal with the challenges facing the country is already being wasted on pathetic party political posturing in preparation for the ritual of the “Honourable Members” slithering on their bellies towards the electorate to obtain votes which enable them to maintain their well upholstered lifestyle, which when achieved the aspirations of the voters will be ignored until the next election is on the horizon.

Perhaps records of attendance for all members in hours and number of speeches made should be prepared which together with knowledge of constituency profile would allow voters to make an informed choice as to whether or not to support or reject the members’ reptilian approachs.

Problems of student debt

From: David Cook, Parkside Close, Cottingham, East Yorkshire.

ANDREW Percy, the MP for Brigg and Goole, wrote: “The battle against debt must start with financial education” (Yorkshire Post, January 23).

He goes on to deplore the expansion of shops and services that facilitate loans on demand. He says he is proud to have chaired the all party inquiry into financial education for young children and says we have a great problem with financial illiteracy in our adult population. He concludes that much debt is truly evil and life-changing for so many people. He is, apparently, still dealing with debt problems from his university fees encountered maybe 20 years ago.

Does he realise that many of today’s students finish a three-year course owing some £30,000, rising in line with inflation? Should they marry a graduate with a similar debt would he suggest their future together would be truly evil and life-changing? If so what does he intend to do about it?

Full spectrum of free debate

From: William Snowden, Dobrudden Park, Baildon Moor, Baildon.

IN his apologia, Brian Sheridan sought to justify his avowed “frequent irritation” with contributions to the Yorkshire Post letters page, on the grounds that the “views” of 
the “extreme Right or the 
extreme Left” threaten “the freedom and human rights of others” (Yorkshire Post, January 23).

This is a distorted perspective. The Yorkshire Post letters page tends to reflect the full spectrum of social, economic and political debates relating to local, regional and national concerns.

Some correspondents may betray a certain prejudice or predisposition; some letters may be more cogently argued and well-reasoned than others, but most strike me as the expressed opinions, views and beliefs of honest folk.

The real threat to freedom comes from those who seek to suppress opinion, stifle debate and cow people into submission.

Tolerance can equanimity are the true prerequisites of liberalism.