IF YOU contact the Christchurch and East Dorset Borough Council with objections or queries concerning the erection of the overnight beach retreats on our currently non-commercialised cliffs at Highcliffe you receive a standard letter and a handout listed as ‘FAQ’.

The council, somewhat patronisingly, has decided what are the most frequently asked questions and if my question falls outside its choice, it’s tough luck!

Even so, I would have hoped to read straightforward answers but instead you find the usual attempt to avoid a straight answer. Do the staff attend special courses in avoiding any issue raised?

One answer refers to the council’s Beaches and Hinterland Management plan amendments of 2013. If you hunt for and download this report, you will find nothing of the sort.

There is no mention of building huts with concrete bases on the cliff within this Site of Special Scientific Interest but it does mention means by which the council can look for ways to make greater financial return from the beach’s assets whilst maintaining the area’s character.

Laughably, the author of the FAQ replies conveniently forgets to mention the section in the report dealing with ecology and geology where the council stresses that it places a high value on the protection of its SSSIs.

What chance is there of the council living up to its much-hyped statement of transparency and openness in its dealings with the public?

RICHARD CHATTERTON

Merley Drive, Highcliffe

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