VOTERS beware. I have noted a large number of candidates putting themselves forward for election at the next local council poll.

How strange when only a couple of years ago the council was struggling to find enough members.

Is it that these persons have a hidden agenda?

It is noted that many of the nominated councillors are part of the protest group to protect the Shudrick Valley. Several of the proposed councillors would be affected if the proposal to build were to go through.

For example their properties would be affected by extra noise, maybe their view would be spoiled, perhaps their house values would fall. The group have brought forward many rationalisations as to why the proposed building should not go ahead.

If we are honest with ourselves most of us would protest strongly if we were in the same position.

Some may genuinely feel that it is in the town’s best interest for the proposal not to go ahead.

They may be right.

We have the right to protest and to be listened to, but I think it is extremely dangerous if we allow a certain group to dominate the local council. We need a fair and balanced council who are able to take each issue on its own merits, weigh up the pros and cons and make balanced decisions for us all, regardless of their personal feelings.

There is such a thing as prejudicial interest where members of the council who might be affected by the outcome of a vote would be barred from taking part in debates and voting. How often is this invoked?

I love Ilminster and being part of this community, but I am very unhappy about the idea of an unbalanced council making decisions on my behalf.

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