Launching a new era, watch out for icebergs

The bad ship ‘Entitlement’ was finally terminally holed by the iceberg of public disgust (with only minor assistance from Truss and the other Johnson).

The captain, spinning off the bridge first and crew followed.

Let the election serve as a lesson.

As the good ship ‘Expectation’ already with anchor up, sets sail, may I observe that icebergs can form very quickly, however they can be turned into ship’s pilots to navigate safely.

By engaging the public, many of whom have a mass of local knowledge having battled on such as the local plan, the journey will be embraced, and skills offered to get us there.

Why not for example create a citizens assembly involving and listening to public wisdom.

Yes, a radical departure from the recent authoritarianism.

Any new regime needs 30/60/90-day action plans.

Can I suggest there are some bold objectives.

Set up a complete review of the local plan and all planning for example.

Push the boundaries to see what can be changed.

Believe me, public representatives know more than you on this.

Despite the ships councillors having been eradicated, some of the deckhands (council officials) will need promoting (certain overworked planners) and some removing, often seen during local plan hearings, and some hiding from that exposure.

Incompetent and political mouthpieces. We don’t know if Captain Cllr Werner has the leadership skills to complete the voyage but there is clearly a willingness to see him do so.

22-year-old lieutenants should, I suggest, be open to the wisdom of the community to combine with the obvious demographic connection and energy.

Let’s remember, when a ship hits the harbour wall, its seldom the harbour wall’s fault, so put on board the best councillors in cabinet positions (including Independents), able council officer deckhands and critically open the cabins to the public and give balconies to those with expert knowledge.

Honeymoon is over and sailing to be done.

Let’s rename the ship ‘Beyond Expectation’, her maiden voyage to warmer climates, avoiding icebergs.

PAUL STRZELECKI Berries Road

Cookham