MORE Mail …

Do you remember me saying — yesterday — that I was mildly miffed about not getting an email published by the Gazette?

And jokingly saying I’d send one to the Brentwood Weekly News, instead … ?

I’ve got to admit, I had a PERFECT excuse to, after having a look at their website, today.

Or, at least, their sites coverage of Tuesday night’s Planning Meeting.

I’ve got to admit, I had to send them something …

Dear Mr Lewis

I’ve got to admit, I read your online article about the — thankfully — refused planning application for 71 flats at Saint James Road.

And while you’re right in saying we’re mostly delighted, it’s still not a complete victory. I should know. I was the resident who spoke to object to the plans, on the night of the meeting.

My objection to the plans was and is on the basis of the parking in Saint James Road. I, as many of my neighbours, can tell you that the parking is extremely overcrowded. To the point where I believe that — at it’s worst and as things stand — it will prevent access for emergency vehicles both to Rollason Way and Wharf Road. I know I saw no mention of any objections from Essex County Fire Services on the agenda, that night.

Which sounds — to me — as if they’d not been consulted about it.

That’s why I personally call it an incomplete victory: after all, if the proposed offices go ahead, that will bring still more cars parked on the street. And increase the on-street parking even further.

Leaving less room for emergency vehicles.

I believe that may contribute to someone’s death, some day.

I know I’ve probably sent that in a bit late for publication, in this weeks edition.

Hopefully, that’ll go in next weeks!

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Just as a foot note, I think I should highlight the fact, while the Highways people were mentioned — complaining about motorbike and cycle parking spaces — it made no mention of any consultations with Essex Country Fire Services, or from whoever it is that runs the local ambulance services.

It also points out that Brentwood Council’s Parking Policies don’t match those of Essex County Council.

And as a further point … ?

The Recommendation section of the Agenda for that meeting — section 8 of the agenda — mention that conflict between the lack of employment in the area. AND that there’s a lack of amenities in the area.

But doesn’t mention that there’s not enough space, in my humble opinion.