Kate Lord-Brennan says the board has 'opaque' decision making processes
Peel Commissioners says it's 'disappointing' that the former cabinet office minister didn't speak to them about the amount of land zoned for residential development in the Draft North and West Area Plan.
Kate Lord-Brennan, MHK for Glenfaba and Peel, who oversaw the plan until she resigned at the end of last year, said the local authority had submitted this land to the consultation.
The local authority claims its submissions and responses are public, whilst Ms Lord-Brennan has stated she will be voting against it when it gets to Tynwald.
Peel Commissioner Alan Jones says the board has offered her an 'open invite' to speak to them directly about the matter.
He also said the board asked the consultation and inquiry into the plan for this land to be designated as 'strategic reserves' so it could be saved for the future when other sites had been developed.
Kate Lord-Brennan said in response: “The commissioner's letter is misleading and full of falsehoods. It appears to be a defensive reaction to my simply informing constituents about the final consultation on the North West Area Plan (ending 27th March) - something the Commissioners themselves have failed to do.
"I have never had the power to approve land zoning, nor would I if I did. My priority is the people of Peel, and how things impact them.
"The commissioners seem frustrated because I have exposed and questioned their stance and submissions into the draft North West Area Plan, as well as their opaque decision-making. While standing by the positions highlighted in my letter last May, they continue to keep the public in the dark about their decisions and motives, which they seem unable to state in plain language.
"In time, I believe their alignment and synergy with developers and landowners will likely become clear.
"My duty is to my constituents, not the local authority. I have been consistent in opposing further greenfield development, will maintain this position and will continue to hold the Commissioners accountable where necessary. The public, as ratepayers and residents, should do the same.
"Peel Town Commissioners should focus on their core responsibilities. The town is in poor shape, and residents are frustrated. They must engage with the public transparently, listen, respond and take meaningful action, rather than making questionable decisions behind closed doors.
"The commissioners are elected to serve their community and oversee the effective management of the local authority to deliver a range of basic town services - not to avoid scrutiny. If they fulfilled this responsibility, collaboration could be productive.”
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