Since the Emergency Coastal Defence Works at Llandudno North Shore have been carried out that saw over 850 turn out to a very heated public meeting, there have been several calls for C.C.B.C. to show greater clarity in relation to the processes used in terms of the procurement and democratic processes at the time.
Despite the Assembly Member, the MP and others raising many pertinent questions in this regard, it is fair to say that the answers have been slow in response. However, some of the information received recently by use of the Freedom of Information act appears to show that an important element in terms of the procurement process was agreed and carried out well behind the scenes.
Despite assurances given that these works did follow due process, seemingly the report produced by Cllr Mike Priestley the Cabinet Member with responsibility for the portfolio never went to the SLT meeting and an important decision to extend the term for the preferred contractor was made by the means of a mere exchange of emails between some Senior Officers. Furthermore, it wasn’t until May that a Cabinet report was tabled, seeking retrospective approval to appoint the actual contractors and this was AFTER the contractors had completed the works.
The decision to approve the terms for a preferred contractor is of significant regard considering that the works have been heavily criticised leaving the beach inaccessible over these stones by our children, the elderly and even those with minor disabilities. It is in fact thought to be quite unsafe and there are examples reported where children have fallen sustaining some injury.
The result of these works have led to the forming of a campaign group called "Restore our Beach” led by Ian Turner, Alison Shields and other high profile individuals within the town. The group has held two very successful public meetings and have a Facebook page with over 4000 followers. There is currently a petition in circulation attracting numerous signatures daily. Mr John Farrell of the group will be addressing the Communities Scrutiny committee this evening at Bodlondeb 6.00pm
Assembly Member for Aberconwy Janet Finch-Saunders said “ I am amazed and extremely disappointed that it appears this decision was rushed through without due regard to the residents, affected businesses and visitors. It is even more surprising that these works were approved without the input of democratically elected Councillors, and indeed without any process of Scrutiny at the time. Of concern too is that there is now a process within the authority that consists of a handful of Senior Officers, who are obviously making decisions of such importance, in effect bypassing the Democratic and Scrutiny function.
Llandudno is one of the major Coastal Sea Resorts in Wales, often referred to as “The Jewel in the Crown” and “The Naples of the North” and these works of such significant importance to one of our largest assets have been criticised by many. To learn that this decision was taken without the relevant Scrutiny and Democratic functions is disappointing to say the least.
Whilst it is accepted that we do need adequate sea defence works for our beautiful town, it is imperative that due process has ensued, otherwise it completely undermines the confidence in any democratically elected authority and its members. It is essential that all public bodies ensue that Transparency, Financial Probity and Democratic Accountability are at the heart of all policies and decisions taken.
ENDS
