I HAVE just been to look at the proposed development by Magna of the site of the old council offices on North Quay.

Why was such a prime harbourside site given to a social housing developer.

This would not have happened in any other seaside town along the south coast.

The site is highly visible and will with careful architecture be an asset to that side of the harbour.

However, Magna probably would not spend the money required to make this site fit in with the outer harbour if it is all given over to social housing.

I have no problem with social housing, indeed I went on a medically approved list for a council house in 1962 and I'm still waiting to hear.

However, realistically to have a thriving town which benefits the people with lower incomes you require some incentive for people with higher incomes who will spend money and come into the town.

One of those incentives would be the ability to buy a nice home on the harbourside.

There is some social housing at Chapelhay, at Westham and Littlemoor and more housing has been granted at Littlemoor.

Maybe one row at the rear could be shared ownership but the front prime row should not be for social housing purposes.

Social housing will not lift the town as people with lower incomes cannot afford to spend money in cafes and restaurants in the same way that people buying homes near the Marina would be able to do.

The council have also approved a Premier Inn on a prime site which can be seen from Overcome to the Pavilion which will end up with a utilitarian box with a big purple sign on it dominating views of the Bay.

Does any one on our council have any vision or long term view of the town which might lift it out of its downward spiral?

I fear social housing on the edge of the harbour will not do that.

H MCLAUGHLIN

via email