WE, the members of the Crediton and Area branch of Devon Senior Voice (DSV), strongly agree with the sense of outrage expressed in John Higg’s letter published in the Courier (December 11, 2015).

Following the news that Mid Devon District Council is proposing to shut it’s Crediton office, we agree with Mr Higgs that the heart is, indeed, slowly being torn out of Crediton.

This latest proposal, to shut yet another office that serves the public and gives our town a facility it needs to operate well and efficiently, is appalling and, in our view, very short-sighted.

As well as the several excellent points Mr Higgs makes, we would like to add that the offices could also offer some space to stock local taxi, bus and train timetables.

The offices are used regularly by local council tenants to pay their rent and council tax as well as report repairs that are needed.

This would cause these residents added hardship, as not everyone has access to a computer to pay bills or private transport to travel to Phoenix House, Tiverton.

The premises are not only used by Crediton Town Council, but also several other local organisations, including the CAB and Community Transport.

We feel it’s imperative that Mid Devon District Council convenes a full and thorough consultation with local groups and organisations.

DSV members would wish to be involved in this process.

Our council offices play a central role in the daily life of our town and we must fight to save them.

The Committee

Crediton and Area Branch

Devon Senior Voice