CREDITON residents Paul and Judith Tucker have written the following open letter to the MP for Central Devon, Mel Stride, concerning the recent decision by the Cabinet at Mid Devon District Council:

WE were shocked and upset to learn recently that Mid Devon District Council has decided to sell Crediton Council Offices to an outside bidder rather than to Crediton Town Council.

We had hoped they would follow the precedent set when they sold Tiverton Town Hall to Tiverton Town Council for half its commercial value for the benefit of that community.

There is no doubt that Crediton Council Offices comprise an Asset of Community Value, the definition of which is, I understand, that “its current use furthers the social well-being or social interests of the local community AND it is realistic to think that this can continue.”

It is invaluable to the local community to have our Council offices right in the centre of the town.

The Council Chamber is used by the Town Council, Crediton Hamlets Parish Council and numerous other local groups and the offices not used by the Town Council house other vital resources such as Citizens’ Advice and Community Transport.

We understand that Councils are obliged to get the best value they can from their assets, either through their own use or by sale.

We do not, however, think that this financial obligation outweighs their duty to support and enhance the well-being and quality of life of all the communities within their administrative area.

We believe the loss of the Council Offices will be so damaging to the town of Crediton and its surrounding area that Mid Devon District Council is guilty of severe dereliction of duty in failing to treat Crediton in the same way as it treated Tiverton, thus depriving our community of the benefit of this very important community asset.

As we assume that you do care for all the communities within your constituency, we would be grateful if you would advise us, as a matter of urgency, what, if anything, you feel we can do to save our Council Offices for Council and community use.

Paul and Judith Tucker

Address supplied

by email