Hello,

Thank you again to everyone who has signed and shared the petition so far. As I’ve said in the headline, we also have signed printed petitions coming in to us now, and another person delivering printed flyers. The reason for the printed flyers is the extent to which discussion seems to have been suppressed and replaced with propaganda from the Councils and Town Deal Board.

When out and about, I do not raise the issue with others, I only discuss it if they raise it with me. I’ve had some very interesting conversations. One of them was with somebody who I know, respect and get on very well with who has traditionally voted for the party currently in Govt. She recounted instances she had observed and experienced over years of people being excluded from debates, and even from support, by the other of the two main parties. Although I feel those of us who do not feel able to support the local and East Riding councils are excluded, I believe her, she is not somebody who would make things up.

Many of us have our values and world views. We are entitled to them. We all feel more comfortable talking with like minded souls. That’s not necessarily healthy. Excluding people from debates, and communities because their values and political support does not go to one or other of the main political parties is divisive and weakens the community.

This petition is not about telling people which parties they should and shouldn’t support, or which political views they should and shouldn’t have. It is for everyone who feels that the Town Deal Plan, while it has good aspects, has plans which are not the right way forward, and that we should be able to express those views freely and in public.

A lot of comments I’ve heard seem to be about difficulties parking, and traffic, lives close to the VPG, and at the Leisure Centre. The photo with this message is a comment from somebody who lives close to the VPG about the difficulties parking round there.

Thanks again - keep sharing!