Graham Phillips, of Longstone, Hope Cove, writes: Following an extensive ­period of time since the original presentation of tangible ideas, there has been a wealth of opportunity to pass opinion, consultation with a wide ­variety of agencies – some at not inconsiderable cost – and numerous alterations to and redrafting of plans concerning the proposed development of the Cottage Hotel in Hope Cove. The time is now close for councillors to make a decision on this application, and in the interest of both the survival of Hope Cove as a thriving ­holiday village, and the Cottage Hotel as an iconic and sought-after destination, I can only urge them to vote yes. The hotel has been operating at the present site for close to 90 years, since 1927. It is also fact that the proposed area for development is mostly contained within the footprint of the current building and is not encroaching onto a new site. Additionally, it is clearly obvious from plans and digital artists' impressions that the bulk of any increased 'massing' is to the rear of, and hidden by, the current building, while alterations to the front have been designed – taking on board the suggestions of many – to blend in sympathetically with the immediate hinterland, which as we know is contained within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is a fact that in recent years those using hotels have become more discerning in their requirements. For example, many want rooms larger than they were not so long ago. En suite has become the norm, and quite correctly numerous changes have been made to enable those with disabilities to have full access. To facilitate all this, the Cottage Hotel has made changes, so much so that it has maintained its distinctive character and remained popular with its repeat residents. But, in order to do this, it has had to reduce its number of rooms from 45 to 32. It can shrink no more. To remain viable it must develop, and the proposed development can be seen clearly by anyone with a notion of economics as a well-thought-out plan for ­sustainable development. The many who support the development realise the importance this business has to both the hotel trade in the locality and the continued survival of thriving tourism in Hope Cove. All business interests in the ­village appear to be forward-thinking in their plans, and those involved in tourism are making changes to enhance the service they provide while maintaining the unique beauty of the geographical location. This in turn has an advantageous knock-on effect to other tourist attractions in the South Hams and helps to keep the lifeblood of the economic wealth of the area pumping. It is now time for councillors to pay their respects to, and show support for, the ­individuals in these businesses who elected them to office, and to show their appreciation and understanding of the situation by voting yes for the Cottage Hotel plans.