Re: Approval of 15 homes at Tipton St John. I note that the above approval was made on the casting vote of the chairman.

Although this is perfectly legal, it seems unfair that such an important decision is effectively in the hands of one man.

Having researched the subject on the internet the following advice was obtained.

“A wise chairman will nearly always exercise their casting vote to preserve the status quo.”

In most circumstances, that means that they will vote against the proposal. The reason is that the proposal can then be raised at a future meeting when there may be more support.

Research shows that decisions made in this fashion are often reversed at subsequent meetings. Can these guidelines be adopted at EDDC?

Lawrie Brownlee

Fortfield Chambers, Station Road

Sidmouth