Breaking my heart

I do not point the finger of blame at individuals; I myself should have done more during my time at the town hall to halt the decline.

From Brussels to Bexhill, the unelected pull the strings, and sadly elected members either cannot object or are caught in political groups. So often the spirit of hard work and genuine passion to improve what we have is stifled because the group decides how the vote will go.

We, the electorate, are disenfranchised because our ward councillor has to toe the party line.

I am sure this administration will claim they have done huge amounts for regeneration, with the new Elva Business Park being the flagship, but why-oh-why do they keep telling us in such an arrogant way what is good for us?

I congratulate them for delivering this wonderful new site, as I am sure it will help the local economy and retain much needed employment. However, when it comes to wasting money and not punching their weight, just look at the De La Warr Pavilion.

More than £500,000 a year of taxpayers’ money to support a closed shop of a few influential people and the Arts Council - not a lot for the majority of residents.

Then we have the seafront improvements. Right or wrong, here again the majority are being ignored and we are arrogantly being told what will be good for us.

We are rapidly approaching local elections, so regardless of party, ask your local candidates what they will personally try to do to improve our lives.

I have not written this letter to upset or annoy those currently doing their best, but to support them. However, I do feel we are quick to ridicule those whose views will never be heard because the current political group and cabinet voting system does not allow any form of dissent, free-thinking or democracy.

I love this town and our people - they have always been good to me personally and to my family business - and it saddens me when all we seem to hear is what is wrong.

We have a lot of untapped talent, great ideas to be explored and wonderful surroundings to enhance and preserve. Stop the madness, genuinely consult and give credible influence back to those who create the wealth and pay the bills - the residents and businesses of Bexhill.

STUART EARL

Former mayor