Letter: Councillor Juneja Should Step Down But This Is No Time For Point Scoring

Published on: 17 Aug, 2014
Updated on: 17 Aug, 2014

From Richard Wilson

Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Guildford

Great stories on the Dragon recently, you’re obviously not affected by the “silly season” (except one letter!).

On balance, I agree with your editorial that Cllr Juneja should step down as Executive member responsible for planning. However, before she does so a joint lead for planning should be appointed and work alongside her for a period of at least a month, preferably longer. The Local Plan is too important to be caught up in this shambles.

It is vital to separate legitimate political issues from personal attacks and point-scoring. Since she has been charged with serious offences the trial must be able to take place properly. Cllr Juneja has alleged that she has received personal attacks and abuse. There is no place for this in politics and I condemn personal attacks coming from any side.

My criticism of Cllr Juneja and Cllr Mansbridge is that they have led a process which is failing residents. They should take this opportunity to introduce new blood and actively engage with communities to produce a Local Plan which really works for the borough and isn’t just a “least worst” case. Sadly, I suspect we will see drift and indecision until next May’s election and the next administration will be forced to pick up the pieces.

Labour will continue to propose answers and work for the best future for Guildford. The borough cannot wait until next May or the outcome of Cllr Juneja’s trial for the real energetic leadership and direction it needs at this crucial time.