THE story entitled Campaign for review of democracy in Mid Devon is to be launched on April 4 appeared in the Courier on Friday, March 29, issue 1235.

A Group of local citizens from all political parties and none is being formed to investigate a review of the process of governance within Mid Devon District Council (MDDC) to make it more responsive to the wishes of the local community.

The setting up of the Campaign for Local Democracy in Mid Devon results from what it says are a number of decisions taken by MDDC’s Cabinet in recent years which have not been in accordance with wishes of local people.

A MDDC alderman, David Nation, who is involved in the campaign, said: “I have been appalled at recent decisions by the Cabinet.

“They behave in a dictatorial and high-handed manner, very different from how things ran when I was last on the council some eight years ago.

“This wasn’t how the cabinet system was designed to run and unless they change it voluntarily, I believe that steps need to be taken to force them to adopt a more democratic and participatory system.”

Do you think MDDC should be more responsive to the wishes of local people?

You can contact me at 102 High Street, Crediton EX17 3LF or email: [email protected] .

What you told us …

It sounds a good idea but I would like to find out more. It certainly does sound like a good idea though.

Crediton Resident

After reading a letter in the Courier yesterday (April 5) by David Oliver, I urge Crediton residents to ask why are rules different in Tiverton? I agree we do get a bad deal compared to residents in Tiverton. We are very much the “poor relation”. It seems unfair as we are paying the same in Council Tax.

Christine Gregory, Crediton

I absolutely think that MDDC should be more responsive to the wishes of local people. You always think they will listen, but they don’t. The council offices shouldn’t have been sold and Crediton left out on a limb. It is sad that new businesses don’t survive and need help financially. Lots of businesses are closing. We need the town to be vibrant.

Cherry Stemp, Crediton

I suppose there are so many issues in the town that MDDC need to listen to. Anything they do to help the town is good. People are just fed up with the council and politics in general.

Crediton Resident

I think MDDC look after Tiverton. We’ve seen that with the council office sales. There’s definitely discrimination. They have all the sway in Tiverton and Crediton doesn’t get a say.

Crediton Resident