Give us more information! That was the demand from Harwich residents who last night postponed a referendum into the planned Bathside Bay development.
More than 80 people were at Long Meadows Community Centre in Dovercourt to discuss plans for a parish poll.
Concerned - more than 80 people attended the meeting to discuss the planned Bathside Bay development. Picture: STEVE ARGENT
A special town meeting had been called to debate the plan, but residents decided they wanted more information on the proposed container terminal at Harwich International Port before holding the poll.
Resident David Noble proposed the referendum should be deferred until there was more information available. Another parish meeting can be called by the mayor, two councillors or six residents.
Mr Noble also suggested Tendring Council should be given more time to examine the applications.
Three planning applications have been made to Tendring Council, which has until August to make a decision. The matter will almost certainly be then handed over to a public inquiry, which is set to take place early next year.
Resident Jim Grange said port owner Hutchison was not providing enough information, while Dale Cheesman questioned whether the council should be spending £5,000 on a poll when there was such a great need for jobs in the town.
Harwich councillor Lawrie Payne said: "I am in favour of the poll taking place. I believe it will be useful to hear what the people of Harwich and Dovercourt have got to say."
An overwhelming majority voted for the deferment, with just four against the idea.
Published Thursday, June 26, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article