The meeting to determine the future of the former Hawkin's site was eventually deferred on Tuesday following heated debate during which proceedings verged on the farcical. Chair of the Planning Committee Owen Philp has asked that the meeting go into closed session and that members of the public and press be excluded during the debate but this was hotly contested by a united front of Hayle Councillors who wanted an open meeting.

Hayle Councillors including Mayor Terry Lello, Duncan Cook, John Bennett and Robb Lello questioned the need for a closed meeting arguing that there was nothing to discuss that was not already public knowledge  or was commercially sensitive.

The appropriateness of Mr Philps Chairmanship of the meeting was questioned following his comments to the media in which he declared support for the Hawkin's Site development and branded  last year's referendum a complete waste of time and money, (which seems contrary to both local democracy and Penwith Council's stated vision).

The meeting was finally called to a close as midnight beckoned and with no prospect of the matters of procedure being resolved. Hayle Councillors, Mr Philp apart, are calling for the deferred meeting to be open to press and public.

Meanwhile it looks like Cornwall County Council are planning to pass the buck on the M&S proposal for a store at Marsh Lane and refer the planning application to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for determination claiming that is raises contentious strategic policy issues. It is feared that if indeed the application goes to Mr Prescotts Office the considerable delay which it will cause will result in the proposal being withdrawn.

Already however the ball is rolling to try and get the decision determined locally and promptly, A petition is being made available and by the time you read this should be available in Bigglestone for anyone interested to sign.  There are talks of a march and referendum.

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