In the frame for ‘parroted’ letters
Opponents of a proposed new film studio have criticised the number of ‘parroted’ letters that have been submitted in support of the project.
Save Marlow Greenbelt (SMG), which has vigorously campaigned against the proposed film studios on land just off the A404, expressed concerns after more than 70 per cent of representations in support appeared near-identical.
Thousands of comments have been submitted, with objectors initially outnumbering supporters.
However, in recent months, scores of comments have been submitted in favour of the proposals via the Marlow Film Studios website (marlow.film), which gives visitors the option of sending a pre-written letter of support to Buckinghamshire Council, along with their contact details.
SMG campaigners have criticised this approach, and claim that many of responses have come from outside Marlow’s SL7 postcode.
Sam Kershaw, committee member at SMG, said: “It is unclear how these messages of support will be dealt with by Bucks Council.
“If the planning department simply reports the raw numbers with no qualification, then the decision makers will receive a distorted view of public opinion, particularly of local public opinion.
“SMG calls for the council to clearly state their policy for accepting and reporting public comments and petitions.”
Peter Strachan, cabinet member for planning and regeneration said: “All representations regarding a planning proposal, whether in support or objection, play a valuable role in bringing to the attention of the planning authority, any particular and relevant local issues or constraints.
“Planning authorities must adhere to strict guidance within a complex legal framework when considering any planning application. Under planning legislation all applications must be determined in accordance with current legislation, appropriate development plan policies in force at the time and any other material planning considerations that have been identified.
“A planning decision or proposal will not be made on the popularity or otherwise of the development proposal. The number of representations alone, in favour or against an application will not have any bearing on the outcome of the planning officer’s recommendation.
“The council welcomes representations from any interested party during the consultation stage of a planning application. All representations will be taken into account and considered in line with the legal framework before a recommendation is made by the planning officer.”
A spokesperson for Marlow Film Studios said: “We are delighted to be receiving such strong support for the project with over 1,000 supportive letters showing on Buckinghamshire Council’s website. The breadth of support has been very encouraging, spanning residents and businesses in the local area and across Buckinghamshire, to important institutions, such as Buckinghamshire New University and Creative England.
“We believe the level of support is indicative of the response we’ve received during our local engagement events and represents the tremendous opportunity Marlow Film Studios provides by delivering up to 4,180 jobs, training and education opportunities for the next generation, and further establishing Buckinghamshire’s reputation as a world leader in film and television production.”