Imperial "Hypocrisy": Conservative quits after Shepway over-rule Hythe planning decision

12.00.00am GMT Sun 22nd Nov 2009

Hythe residents have slammed the decision of Conservative Shepway Council to ignore Hythe Town Council and vote through the Hythe Imperial Development. After the Shepway vote, Hythe Councillor Richard Carroll resigned the Council and Conservative Party, slamming the decision as "hypocrisy".

Hythe West Town Councillors Darren Briddock and Sam Matthews fought for the development to be discussed in a full Hythe Town Council meeting, rather than a low profile committee meeting. Hythe Town Council rejected the planning proposals.

Lib Dem Darren Briddock said:

"We simply should not allow another over-intensive housing development - particularly one with so many questions surrounding it."

Town Council colleague Sam Matthews added:

"We are not against development per se, but only when it is inappropriate and not needed by the people of Hythe."

Shepway District Councillor Neil Matthews said:

"I was disappointed to see Hythe Councillors ignore the view of Hythe Town Council at the Shepway meeting. Some even spoke in favour of the development! It's example of the Conservatives saying one thing and doing another."