I write after the debacle of Southend Council in sending thousands of residents letters stating no further action would be taken on proposed parking management schemes in Thorpe ward – despite the fact the committee due to take the decision meets tomorrow.

The purpose of this meeting was to hear the results of the latest consultation process and allow residents and businesses to voice concerns.

Yet again our Conservative-run council has predetermined any decision of the committee.

The council’s own policy statement said “the aims of any parking management scheme always include improvements to accessibility, parking provision and convenience to the residents and local businesses. The needs of local residents and the businesses are an integral part of the scheme design and the feedback from the consultation process will form part of any agreed plans.”

Clearly, by ignoring the council’s own policy, this fiasco is another demonstration of a lack of democracy in local government.

The explanation that this letter was sent out by mistake and the apologies I received from the chief executive and senior management of the council are appreciated. However, they do not explain why these letters were written, printed and signed before any resident had a chance to express their views to the traffic and parking committee.

Is there democracy in Southend?

Councillor Ron Woodley
Tyrone Road
Southend