'STING' GIVES PROTEST SUPPORT

Dear Chris,
                Thank you for the information relating to the proposed development near Coatham Bowl.
Although I haven't been there for many years, I remember the area as beautiful and relatively unspoiled, I respect and understand the commitment and passion of your objections.
I am always wary of entering the complex arena of local politics.
When you put yourself as an advocate for a local cause, it allows the opposition to state their case too, on the back of, 'Who does he think he is? Coming here and telling us what to do, bloody celebs, what do they know? Go back to your yacht!'
However I have braved this kind of slagging before, notably in The Amazon Basin, working to create a legal infrastructure for people whose rights were being trampled by the mining and logging companies that have successfully laid waste to vast areas of formerly pristine forest.
What I will say is this:
That while the development of local amenities and services is clearly important, such development must take into full consideration the rights and opinions of all local people. Local councils and developers have to make their case in as public a forum as possible, allowing timely and considered objections to proposals.
Yes, we need to develop local economies but not at the expense of our natural environment. I do not live in the area, and therefore will not enter the political argument, but my concern is that all opinions and voices are heard and respected. Those who are against the development have a legal right to public protest and I support them in exercising of that right. I wish you all the best in this fight Chris, and I hope my statement can be of some use.
                               Sting