Last week, I again chaired a meeting of North Somerset's Strategic Planning Scrutiny Panel, at which there were a number of public speakers wishing to comment on the HGV restriction proposals on the A368. As I did at the Bristol Airport meeting before Ch

Last week, I again chaired a meeting of North Somerset's Strategic Planning Scrutiny Panel, at which there were a number of public speakers wishing to comment on the HGV restriction proposals on the A368. As I did at the Bristol Airport meeting before Christmas, I offered all the potential speakers the opportunity to join in the debate, rather than make statements at the beginning. All agreed and we had a useful and constructive discussion from which councillors present learned a lot, and as a result were able to make some constructive suggestions for both our officers and the freight industry to consider. What a stark contrast with the BIA meeting where it is now becoming apparent to me that the Echo Irvings of this world were more miffed at not being able to make their political statements than actually trying to resolve a problem by discussing it sensibly with all concerned. Why don't they just be honest and admit they are anti-airport full stop, and that nothing anyone proposes will get them to alter their opinions?For their information it was I who prepared and proposed the recommendation which goes to the council on February 20, that we not agree to the BIA master plan but seek further assessments of the impacts on our highways and environment.Presumably those accusing me of bias towards the airport had their hands over their eyes and ears at that point in the meeting!CLLR ELFAN AP REES - Locking