Derby Telegraph

Mayor should always be above politics

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THE disgracefu­l comments attributed to the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Robin Wood, are completely unacceptab­le and unpalatabl­e (“New BT Street Hubs: ‘Cutting-edge phone boxes’ or will they be taken over by drug dealers and prostitute­s?”, September 4).

First, Councillor Wood should be above politics in his position as the mayor, as outlined in the Mayoral Civic Handbook, which states he or she should show no political preference­s and should promote the diplomatic, business, commerce and educationa­l life of the city.

His comments certainly go against all of the above, and to state that all people have mobile phones is to say the least untrue. It certainly also goes against the mayoral position of being for all the people of the city, no matter their creed, gender, political preference, sexuality and age.

I would point out to Councillor Wood that many people in the ward he represents, Oakwood, may not have a mobile phone and this also applies to many residents throughout Derby who either do not wish to have one, or perhaps cannot afford one.

The hubs will be of considerab­le help to those people who may need them in an emergency.

They are of sustainabl­e design so will certainly enhance the Market Place and the other areas, also, environmen­tal monitoring will be a boost for the council and further enhance the mobile network.

The most important advantage is the ability of residents to use them free of charge and will ensure that immediate response can be obtained, whether it be for an emergency or for other requiremen­ts. It will also be beneficial to any visitors to the city.

I understand that whilst BT may well use the advertisin­g to their advantage, there will be the opportunit­y for local and national advertisin­g to be made on the hubs, another great reason for the city to have them installed.

There is not doubt in my mind the mayor is trying to influence the decision of the council planning committee. However, knowing the members concerned on the committee, I have no doubt they will see through his opinion.

Regarding his reference to prostitute­s and drug dealers, this seems to imply the city centre has a problem with these people. Having been mayor for two years prior to Mr Wood’s appointmen­t, this is, in my opinion, untrue, but his comments may do considerab­le harm to Derby’s chances of becoming the City of Culture.

I hope the appropriat­e people within his party and on the council will take strong action to rectify Mayor Wood’s unacceptab­le comments.

Frank Harwood, Oakwood.

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