Council Investigation Launched Amid Takeaway Voucher ‘Bribery’ Claims
Brighton and Hove City Council starts an investigation. They check claims that a property developer gave residents takeaway vouchers in return for praise on a planning application. The plan comes from WSE Property Services Ltd. John and Holly Wright own the company. They want to change a family home on 47 Eastbrook Road into a house in multiple occupation.
Allegations of Improper Influence
Tenants of WSE Property Services said they received takeaway vouchers if they wrote good comments on the planning application. The claims came anonymously on the council website. This news creates worry about the honesty of the planning process and clear public feedback.
The council has not discussed all plan details yet. The firm tried changing the house before; a plan last March ended quickly.
Public Concern and Political Response
Chris Ward, the Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, spoke about the need to check these claims. After a public email came in, Mr Ward called for fast action. He stressed that local trust must stay strong.
In a redacted email, one person wrote, "I ask you to look into this matter fast and firmly. I want the council to stop these acts with a thorough check."
Labour Councillor Liz Loughran, who leads the council’s Planning Committee, said, "We expect people to answer on plans in good faith, and we take such claims very seriously." She added that when comments seem odd, the council may remove them.
Balancing Construction and Community Concerns
Council files show 43 people oppose the proposed HMO on Eastbrook Road while nine support it. The numbers show a wider debate about housing in Portslade, especially when more homes may mean more traffic and pressure on services.
One objector said, "This road is hard to park on now, and adding six more adults plus visitors will make it worse." They worry about strains on waste and sewage systems.
A supporter said more HMOs would help students at the nearby Performers College, as many face long journeys without nearby homes. One comment read, "Most students, mostly women, face an hour on public transport because there is little local housing."
Future Steps and Transparency
As the investigation goes on, the results may change how future plans are handled. The claims and the council’s check can shape how much the public trusts local planning.
Brighton and Hove City Council values public comments on plans, but it also checks them well. It is key that residents and stakeholders share honest feedback.
In short, the claim that a developer gave takeaway vouchers to gain support for a planning application has started an investigation by Brighton and Hove City Council. As the examination moves forward, it is vital that both developers and tenants keep public engagement honest.
Sources
- Brighton and Hove City Council (https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk)
- Greatest Hits Radio (https://www.greatesthitsradio.co.uk)
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