VALE OF SECRECY?

I must admit to feelings of frustration at the way the Vale District Council is dealing with the development ofAbingdon's Old Gaol (see also my letter in the Abingdon Herald of 30 August). Our organisation, COG (Community in the Old Gaol), was set up eighteen months ago with the aim of providing a focus for the interests of the local community on the future of the Old Gaol. COG is not a disruptive protest group but wants to engage positively with the Vale and the developers and make a contribution to the outcome. COG has done a lot of research amongst community groups and sites with relevant similarities (such as the successful Oxford Castle development , where discussions with a community groupntook place at an early stage).

It is the response from the Vale that I find frustrating. Despite a petition from 4500 local people (now over 5000) that was presented to the Vale in July in support of COG's aims there has to date been virtually no opportunity offered for any real discussion with the Vale or the proposed developers. Instead we seem to be faced with an extreme interpretation of "commercial confidentiality" to prevent any such discussion. The Vale has shorlisted an unknown number of unknown bidders and will decide on a "winner" (or final shorlist) in a couple of months. Surprisingly, Abingdon Town Council has similarly been kept in the dark. It might be supposed that the Vale has no real interest in what the community thinks, but just wants the maximum cash return that it can obtain.

The only bright note is that the Vale has recently agreed to pass to the bidders the portfolio of proposals developed by COG, although with the proviso that no direct discussion will be allowed, and that the Vale will act as a "conduit" for any exchange of information.

To restate COG's aims, they are (1) to oppose the sale of the freehold by the Vale, (2) to restore public access to the river-front, and (3) to ensure provision of some community facilities in the building.

Even at this late stage COG is determined to continue to press for its proposals to receive proper consideration. If you would like to support COG's aims, it would be worth raising thse issues with your Vale or Town Councillors.

Do visit COG's website www.oldgaol.org.cuk or email COG on oldgaol@btinternet.com