Your reports over the last two weeks have served to highlight the adverse and disastrous impact on tenants at the Port. (Rush and the Grace Network)
At Stroud Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee (10June ) Conservative members argued a strong case for a short respite to eviction. Your reports fail to mention that, and the vote to confirm lease termination was by no means unanimous.
We recognise that a cleared site is an important part of moving this important development forward.
However, I proposed what I considered to be a realistic and workable compromise, that gave Rush and the Grace Network a further 3 months to sort themselves out, and in the case of Rush, let them offer facilities through the summer holiday.
This was proposed without damaging, in my view, the viability of the redevelopment. Our plea was rejected by the Alliance administration parties. It was clear they had made up their minds before listening to the debate.
One might wonder what is the point of having a discussion about the merits and downsides of any proposal in committee if the decision is taken before and outside of any open minded public review.
The essential value that the Grace Network provides to the public good is undeniable. Rush too has a vital place in the leisure provision in the district. My fear is that many will suffer because of this closed=minded decision.
How ironic that Tories should act in a socially responsible way, while those parties that pride themselves in supporting the “common good” should take a more ruthless commercial approach.
Nick Hurst. Conservative Ward Councillor for Minchinhampton
Minchinhampton
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