Insensitivity?
SIR - Last week I witnessed an example of crass insensitivity towards the people of Sidmouth by someone high up in East Devon District Council .
Thursday, May 10, was an historic day for Sidmouth. It became the world’s first civic arboretum, as a result of the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce, the hard work of private citizens and the cooperation of Sidmouth Town Council.
A ‘tree trail’ was inaugurated which will guide residents and visitors around the town’s remarkable tree heritage.
The Knowle parkland is an integral part of this trail and during the day’s celebrations a group of tree enthusiasts and experts – including the former curator of the Westonbirt National Arboretum – were given a tour of the grounds by East Devon tree officers to see some of the exceptional trees found there.
About 4pm as they left, the group’s exit into Knowle Drive was obstructed by a council van. Incredibly, the driver had just finished erecting a bollard in the centre of the path bearing a new metal sign. It read:
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“EDDC owns the land surrounding this building and there is no intention to dedicate it or any part of it as a public right of way.”
Not just embarrassing but shameful!
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Tony Green
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