Takeaway Voucher Allegations Lead to Investigation of Council’s Planning Process

Introduction

Foul play is alleged in a planning process. Brighton and Hove City Council now starts an inquiry. A developer from WSE Property Services Ltd is linked to the claim. Tenants got takeaway vouchers for writing good remarks on a plan. The plan wishes to change a family home into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

Background of the Application

John and Holly Wright run WSE Property Services Ltd. They sent several applications about the property on 47 Eastbrook Road, Portslade. The latest plan seeks a five-bedroom HMO for up to six residents. The company tried before. In March 2024, they applied and then withdrew the plan soon after. No extra steps took place then.

Even with the earlier withdrawal, the new plan has drawn strong public interest and is under close watch. Serious claims suggest that unsound practices might have been used to win support.

The Allegations

On the council website, anonymous comments bring claims from WSE Property Services tenants. They say John Wright asked them for good feedback in return for takeaway vouchers. The council published the comments and kept names secret because data protection rules apply.

One tenant wrote that they got a direct message from John Wright. They were told to give positive remarks in return for takeaway vouchers. If these claims are true, they cast doubt on both the plan and the planning process.

Council Response

Chris Ward, the Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, has asked for an inquiry about these claims. A local resident sent him emails and screenshots that share more details. The councillors stress that the process must stay open and fair.

Labour councillor Liz Loughran, who leads the Planning Committee, said the council wants true feedback on plans. She stated, "We do not give details on each case. However, we know these claims and we are checking them."

Councillor Loughran stressed that community views matter. She said, "Planning is not a public vote. All comments, for or against, help us make a broader decision."

Public Response

So far, the plan has sparked mixed views. The council website shows 43 objections and nine supportive comments. One objector wrote that more residents would worsen parking. They said, "This road is already hard to park on." This comment shows how additional residents could add strain on local roads.

A supporter sees the plan as needed for students at the nearby Performers College in North Street, Portslade. They said, "Most students at the college spend up to an hour on public transport." This view draws attention to the need for low-cost housing for students.

Conclusion

Brighton and Hove City Council now investigates the claims against WSE Property Services Ltd’s plan. The case shows the need for honest actions in local government. With public watch so high, the result could affect not only the developers but also the trust in the planning system.

It is very important that the process stays clear and that community views are counted. This case might change how local planning applications are handled and seen in the times ahead.

For more information on local governance and planning processes, visit Brighton and Hove City Council and check Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Sources:

• Brighton and Hove City Council: Website
• Greatest Hits Radio: News Article
• Local Democracy Reporting Service: Local Democracy.