It seems the exhibition laid on by ECB came after the closure of the period for consultation of the plans. Mark Spragg is finishing his report this weekend and that it was possible that the EBC applications would go to the Dev Control Panel meeting on 31 March.

We have asked for a 2 week extension, such that we can send in letters with our comments following detailed discussions with the EBC specialists on Wednesday, but he said that although EBC put up the exhibition on 10th March, this was outside the consultation period which ended on 1st March!. He also told me that if we want to submit a petition, he needs it before the Panel meeting, do add the number of signatories to his report (which would be impossible to achieve!). He said that if the case is discussed on 31 March, we will be told in writing about 1 week in advance.

So procedurally it would seem the College has now gained an advantage.

However, it seems that Theresa May was given a different story by the College, when Theresa visited the college exhibition she was told that he consultation period was still open and the views of local residents were being taken into account. So who is correct in this? if not will the council have to reopen the consultation period as there is clearly some confusion.

Theresa May has proposed to write to EBC and RBWM to request a full and proper consultation of the whole matter that is now being exposed to examination. Shouldif we want to open the consultation up to the whole town, to look at other options for the site, the persons to write to are Dr Jeremy Hyde and the head of the Berkshire Learning and Skills council. Also Margaret Hyde councillor for Boyn Hill.

The lack of firm proposals for the housing are an issue here, by breaking the development and planning into to components the council are denied th opportunity to see a complete picture of the proposed development. This should be resisted by the Councillors.