Concerns about Council Officials’ conduct over Newbridge

15/12/07

Margaret Smith MSP, supported by local MP John Barrett, has lodged a formal complaint with the Chief Executive of Edinburgh Council regarding the behaviour of Council Planning Officials in relation to regeneration plans for Newbridge. Local residents and businesses had raised concerns that Planning Officials had been deliberately trying to stir up opposition to the proposals, which could secure the future of the Hillwood Primary School, provide new housing, a care home and significant regeneration for the area.

Commenting, the Edinburgh West MSP said: “I am concerned at these reports, particularly when  the Planning Committee had previously unanimously voted in favour of the Newbridge Regeneration Working Group’s plans. I am also concerned that having phoned a hand picked selection of local residents and businesses to seek their views the Economic Development Committee report doesn’t report on the full range of comments and concentrates simply on the one local objection council officials discovered. It is vital that the Chief Executive investigates this matter fully.”