Dear Editor

I recognise the concern felt by residents about the Stoney Stile proposal but was alarmed about recent reports that objectors were encouraged to contact Ross Town Council.  There are two separate ways in which valid objections can be made:  

1.  Objections to any planning application when it is published and

2.  Objections to the proposals in the Neighbourhood Plan.  In both cases, it is therefore important that objections are made via Herefordshire Council, as otherwise they will not be considered by the decision-makers.

1. For each planning application the Town Council is consulted but has no decision making powers.  Once a planning application is made comments can be made either online or via the post. Only objections made after the planning application has been published, and before the deadline for commentary, will be considered.  So it is important not to write too early.  I am sure there will be local publicity if a planning application is made.

2.  The Neighbourhood Plan did suggest that 15 houses would be suitable on this site.  The Plan is now in its final stages and, again, all comments and objections must be made to Herefordshire Council during the consultation period.  The dates of this have not yet been announced but we expect it to start during August and to run through to early October.  Again, there will be publicity about this as soon as the date is announced, including on the Town Council website.  

Councillor Jane Roberts

Mayor of Ross-on-Wye