11th May 2008

PRESS RELEASE

The Deal Society has added its voice to the objections to the Minters Yard development.

The Society is not convinced that the surveys carried out by Kent Highways are of sufficient depth and scope and are contrary to the experience of people living in Middle Deal. The impact of heavy goods vehicles on a residential community can only have a detrimental effect. We suggest that the Kent Highways department should attempt to drive a HGV through the highly congested roads without causing damage to either property or cars.

The development would cause environmental degradation, pollution and congestion in Middle Deal. The introduction of large-scale retail warehouses will jeopardise small independent businesses in the town centre. It would also damage the built and natural environment in Middle Deal and is; therefore, contrary to the principles the Deal Society stands for. The Society believes it contravenes the environmental standards being set by national and regional government.

Before there is any further escalation in commercial and housing development in the town, there needs to be an overall plan for the improvement of infrastructure and the growth of job creation.

The Deal Society is urging the DDC Planning Committee to reject the proposed development.

Robin Green

Chair The Deal Society Planning, Conservation and Development sub-committee.

as reported in the East Kent Mercury 14 May 2008.