Online consulting excluding OAPs

Readers are understandably critical of EDDC s claim that residents want to pay more for parking. Is this to pay for the several disastrous alterations at Lace Walk car park? The cost of needlessly  felling trees along the Gissage? The new charges for  Ho

Readers are understandably critical of EDDC's claim that residents want to pay more for parking.

Is this to pay for the several disastrous alterations at Lace Walk car park? The cost of needlessly felling trees along the Gissage? The new charges for Home Safeguard alarm systems used by vulnerable people? The absurd planning action which could evict elderly residents from their homes at The Cedars?

When did EDDC properly consult on these issues? Yet now they assure us they know we want to pay more for car parking.

How did they arrive at this remarkable result?

By using any of the normal methods mentioned on their web site, such as public meetings, questionnaires, approaching people, residents' panels, etc?

Did councillors hold open surgeries?

No! Officers used an 'on line survey' - about as reliable as their new directions at Lace Walk car park.

Many people will be unconvinced by 'Knowle knows best' surveys.

Online may have its uses but, as far as older people are concerned, I would expect EDDC to be aware that many are not comfortable with computer technology; some cannot afford it.

We know that times are hard and local authorities must make economies but, please, if you are going to consult beyond council members, do it properly and responsibly.

We may then trust the result and learn something of benefit.

Tony Simpson

Secretary

Honiton Senior Council