Definition of Vale change

1:51pm Monday 17th March 2008

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WHEN I was younger and possible naive, I believed in the dictionary definition of the word promise' - some engagement to be fulfilled: to afford hope and expectation and ground for hope.

Now it would seem that the word promise' is usually followed by a clause: to promise if it is profitable.

This is evident in Eckington where after many years of promises there was to be built some affordable houses on the land adjoining Pershore Road. These properties were to be offered to some 20 young village people, some of whom were living in crowded family homes and were members of families who have lived in Eckington for over 100 years. Building began and hopes were raised, especially when a consultation paper was placed in the Scout Hut asking villagers to choose the most suitable bricks and tiles for blending in with village properties. But this nearly unanimous choice was ignored and the builders' choice of materials was used.

However, hopes of promises being kept continued. Then applications were made by the young people and they were told that the houses were to be rented to families on benefit living in the Wychavon district, thus assuring the developers a reliable income and the fulfilment of profitable promises.

MRS MURIEL DAWSON, Church Street, Eckington.

l Wychavon District Council spokesman, Alan Smith said: "This development is being built under a section 106 agreement which restricts availability of the properties to those with a connection to the village and neighbouring parishes. Our partners, Rooftop Housing, have written to residents, those on the housing waiting list and the Parish Council, making them aware of the process for applying to rent the properties."