Crowd 'let down' by road chief's absence
A HIGH-ranking councillor disappointed residents by not attending a meeting about a controversial road scheme.
Almost 50 people went to Sutton Bridge Town Council meeting on Tuesday to talk to Lincolnshire County Council highways portfolio holder Coun Dick Edginton.
But he was unable to attend to speak about the town's controversial Bridge Road Enhancement Scheme because he was engaged at another meeting.
The enhancement scheme, with its series of wide kerbs and central roundabouts, has divided townspeople since its installation in 2003.
Some farmers and traders claim the scheme is dangerous and has adversely affected their livelihoods.
But those in favour of the project believe it makes the busy main road safer.
Sutton Bridge Road Safety Action Committee secretary Eunice Artaman said she was bitterly disappointed at Coun Edginton's absence.
After the meeting Mrs Artaman said: "Fifty people who turned out to air their views and concerns regarding the enhancement scheme with Coun Edginton were left feeling very disappointed and let down."
Coun Edginton said he was sorry he was not able to attend the meeting.
He said: "I was not dodging the issue. I just couldn't physically get to Sutton Bridge in time. I had to be somewhere else in the county and could not get there in time.
"I can only offer my apologies. I am more than happy to come down and meet the good folk of Sutton Bridge at a convenient time."
Town council chairman Jenny Rowe told the meeting that Coun Edginton would be given alternative dates.
The chairman faced some jeering from the audience when she responded to residents' questions on a possible public meeting.
Coun Mrs Rowe said: "We said we would have a public meeting six months after the scheme is completed. We are chasing that up.
"It's been held up for several months because of the safety action group."
The council was asked during the public forum why members had not resigned following a vote of no confidence during a safety action group meeting.
Coun Mrs Rowe replied: "I did say on my own behalf that I won't be resigning.
"Hopefully people who think they can do better will step forward for the parish council elections in May."
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Weather for Spalding
Friday 25 May 2012
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Temperature: 12 C to 21 C
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Temperature: 12 C to 20 C
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