THE Brighton Marina Residents’ Association, many of whose members have applied to join the prospective Brighton Marina Neighbourhood Planning Forum, would like to respond to the article in The Argus on January 15.

While it is true that some of us are leaseholders, the forum will have membership from freeholders and those that work in the Marina.

None of us have a financial stake in Brunswick Development Group, nor do we simply agree to everything suggested.

It is worth mentioning that we as an association opposed a previous planning application at appeal because we didn’t think it was “sympathetic or sensitive.

We do however have a stake in our environment and our interest is simply a wish to ensure that our environment, that we call home, is developed in a sensitive and forward thinking manner.

This is why we are backing the Neighbourhood Forum and intend to play a full part in its function.

As those most affected by planning decisions, we believe that the scope of the forum should be limited to the geographical boundaries of the Marina.

Should the forum be widened to include members of the very active outside groups that are intent on frustrating any development in the Marina, we are certain that it will be hamstrung from the outset and will not be able to achieve anything.

The residents believe that sympathetic development is necessary to preserve and enhance the unique environment that is Brighton Marina and wish to contribute to the planning process concerning our neighbourhood – the place where we live.

We have a substantial membership who are passionate about their homes in the Marina and we would like to assure those opposed to our forum as currently proposed that we have an entirely independent voice and have not been and will not be the “sock puppets” of any developer, past, present or future.

Tom Morey

Chairman, Brighton Marina Residents’ Association