John Stevenson, of West Alvington writes:

Cllr Julian Brazil should have more confidence in our Government. They are clearly using the knowledge gained from prior development strategies around the world (eg those employed in the south of Spain) in determining this most cunning long term solution.

The housing problem experienced in the South Hams is a simple matter of economics. As we all know, this area is one of the most beautiful within the United Kingdom and benefits from some of the finest weather. Hence, everyone wishes to live here. This results in excess demand and hence, house prices that are unaffordable to most locals.

The proposed excessive development of the area will result in the breakdown of its infrastructure, with sewage flooding the streets, traffic jams grid-locking the roads and housing estates replacing the stunning countryside views.

This will result in the area becoming infinitely less desirable and, hence, a huge excess of housing provided by the exodus of tourists/ second home owners added to that built during the development rush that no one can afford to buy.

Hey presto, affordable housing once more! To those individuals who think the government is just after a short-term boost in the economy at any price, I say 'see the bigger picture'...