Madam, (re letter from Mr Duffin in the Ross Gazette on November 25th), when representatives of various elements of government (ie councils) are elected, they are put in a position of trust by the electorate.
Recently there have been changes in formation of planning committees which appear to prevent councillors representing their wards and residents. formerly planning committees compromised local planning officers in an advisory capacity - striving for best services for each local area, together with its community.
Now it appears officers have powers to make the decisions thus diminishing the elected councillors' influence in acting for their areas and constituents as they were elected to do.
At times it is vital to listen to the good advice from trusted officers but there are times when the local member does know better.
Adding to the above, it would seem necessary to pay special attention to the water, drainage and sewage system in the area.
At present these are problems existing adjacent to the planned application at Penrice, Walford Road, which may be exacerbated by the addition of a block of 14 flats in the area - much more than previous refusals of single dwelling applications in the area!
Rebellious old Rossian