Laying down the facts

My letters to the press were in direct response to Mr Sadler’s recent letters. I wanted to reassure the people of Anston that councillors try to listen to ALL voices and not just those that shout the loudest.

Moreover he does the people of Anston a disservice when he says that they were tricked into voting for a responsible approach to any future building. There was a lengthy discussion at that meeting which included use of brownfield sites, and bringing empty second homes back into use. My resolution was an attempt to bring some of those ideas together in a practical way.

I do not know why Mr Sadler says that I have not responded to his queries. I have written two lengthy letters to him personally, and I have been in touch with the council who say that they too have had extensive communication with him.

The Local Development Framework has been discussed at many meetings. Mr Sadler was often not present which may be why he thinks that there has been no discussion. A lot of work has also been done by “SaveourGreenbelt” in partnership with the council and the MP. I understand that Mr Sadler is no longer part of this group!

Finally, bus companies themselves decide which routes they will follow .The council is represented at the SYPTE along with other partners and has argued to maintain a service in rural areas with some success. Those areas do have a service which is significantly better than other parts of Yorkshire, indeed, other parts of the country; for instance, the X5 starts its day at 4.43 from Dinnington, getting those people into Sheffield who need an early start, and completing the journey in 45 mins, not much longer than a car!

Cllr Jo Burton

(Labour) RMBC