‘Arrogant’ council in the firing line

Robert Knotts

AN ex-RAF squadron leader has launched a blistering attack on Saddleworth Parish Council, accusing councillors of arrogance.

Robert Knotts, a retired university lecturer, sent an eight-page letter to each individual councillor in the wake of a series of letters in the Evening Chronicle over proposals for major refurbishments to Uppermill’s civic hall.

Last week, the press were asked to leave a full parish council meeting after Councillor Ken Hulme demanded a public consultation on costs.

However, the media ban was reversed when confidential financial details were removed and council leader, Brian Lord, issued a statement surrounding the development.

But in a 2,800-word letter, Mr Knotts, from Austerlands, who is a leading member of the Birks Quarry Action group, claims the parish council is taking an arrogant stance and distancing itself from the electorate.

He said: “Lack of communication makes me, and others, question its effectiveness in representing the electorate. This arrogant attitude is also reflected in a response to a formal complaint I made when I was dismissively told the electorate can address politicians’ accountability every four years in local elections.

“This could actively discourage the public criticising, questioning or debating political issues.”

Mr Knotts compared Saddleworth — which has a population of around 23,500 — with Meltham, only a few miles away, which has 8,600 residents.

He says the Saddleworth Parish Council website only has eight pages of information against Meltham’s 226. And, unlike its counterpart, Saddleworth does not give minutes, annual reports or publications.

Before planning meetings, Meltham has a 15-minute public session for councillors and residents to discuss issues and problems. Saddleworth, with prior approval, offers two minutes.

Councillor Lord said: “The public will not be asked to pay a penny more on the Parish precept. The hall has steadily increased its income over the past few years and inquiries for bookings have risen significantly.”