MUCH has been written about the loop road over a number of years. We are now entering another phase where the Duchy, with the DNP and the MoD, are again pressing for the closure of most of the loop road to private vehicles.

The Duchy say the cost of reinstating the road to make it safe would be prohibitive. May they be reminded that the cost would have been far less but for years of 'benign neglect'? The Duchy also receives, by all accounts, very substantial sums of taxpayers' money from the MoD. I am not aware, correct me if I am wrong, of any of this money being reinvested in local amenities. Perhaps they could make a start with the loop road!

The point has been raised of vehicular rights to use this road, established over 50+ years. The case against is that the road is closed at certain times which, apparently, nullifies this claim. I would question this on the grounds that it is not the landowners (Duchy) who close the road, but their tenants (MoD). Does this change the legal position?

I can recall, some six or so years ago, attending a meeting on behalf of the Hamlets Parish Council, when it was agreed that the road would be made useable for all vehicles as far as New Bridge, which now falls within the proposed closure area. In fact, a small parking space was created as part of the agreement. What happened to this commitment?

In view of the high level of public interest, there should be a great deal more openness with public, parish council and commoners being involved in the decision-making process.

J David Terry

Klondyke House

Okehampton