This is a great example of the role local media can play in local democracy. Ensuring that those in power act on their own, rather than hiding behind vague rules that claim they are entitled to secrecy when public funds are involved.
After all, it was our funds that were spent on the restoration of the old Gaumont/Odéon. Most of our money probably went to getting the contract with NEC and getting it run. Now that has failed (we were made to understand at the request of the NEC) and settlement terms have been agreed. However, those of us who paid the cash are not allowed to know the details!
Will NEC pay compensation? Aren't we the ones paying them? Either way, as treasurers of the city council, we have a right to know. Until we do that, this whole affair reeks, if not corruption, then at least gross incompetence.
If councils were to cut back on basic services everywhere, and it turned out that breaking the deal meant vital funding would be lost, the public would indeed be so outraged that they would listen to this bunch of losers in their ears. You have every right to throw it out.
Mike Priestley, Tackley
