Takeaway Voucher Claims Urge Probe by Brighton and Hove City Council
Council Under Review for Planning Application
Brighton and Hove City Council now looks into claims. A local developer gave takeaway vouchers so people post kind words about their planning bid. WSE Property Services Ltd, led by John Wright, 48, and Holly Wright, 49, seeks to change its family home at 47 Eastbrook Road, Portslade into a five-bedroom HMO that can house six people.
The Story of the Application
WSE Property Services did not try this for the first time. In March 2024, they put in an earlier plan but pulled it back one month later. The new plan brought many voices from local people. Some object while some back the idea. Local residents worry about how the change may strain roads and parking.
Claims of Bribery
Some online notes on the council website say that John Wright sent messages to tenants. In those messages, he told them to give kind remarks for the plan if they got a voucher in return. One note reads:
“I got a direct note from John Wright. He told me and others to post kind words for a voucher. I can show the proof to the committee if needed.”
Labour MP Chris Ward from Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven now asks for a full look into these claims. He got emails and pictures from a local who felt worried. The email stressed that keeping the trust in local work is key.
Council’s Reply
Labour Councillor Liz Loughran, who leads the Planning Committee, said the council feels these claims are serious. “We want people to act in good faith,” she said. She added that if there is strong proof of false remarks, the council will drop those remarks.
The council hides the names and addresses of those who post notes. This choice now makes people ask if the system can be used in the wrong way.
Community Responses
There are 43 objections and nine supportive comments about the plan at Eastbrook Road. Some locals worry about more crowding and few spots to park. One local wrote, “This road is hard to park on already. Six more adults and their visitors will make it worse.”
On the other side, those who agree with the plan say the new home is needed for students at the nearby Performers College. One supporter put it this way: “Most students here are young women. They really need this home.” This view shows the plan might help solve housing gaps for students.
In Conclusion
The case now moves forward as the probe digs deeper. The result may change how planning is done not only in Brighton and Hove but also in other areas. This matter shows the tight link between new building needs and the trust of the community. People who watch the HMO market should keep an eye on this matter for its legal effects and the way it may affect future planning bids.
For more news on local work and council rules, check the official Brighton and Hove City Council website. You can also read local updates on Greatest Hits Radio for more details.
