Claims that Caradon's planners allowed a fence to block a pavement have been hotly denied by the councillor responsible for the area. But local residents say they will continue to press for the fence to be removed, as it poses a hazard to both pedestrians and motorists. Cllr Jim Candy was responding to claims by Radio Devon's Graham Danton that Caradon planners were 'incompetent' for allowing a developer to fence across a pavement on a blind bend at Broads Yard, Downderry. 'We haven't made a mistake,' he told the Cornish Times. 'There never was a pavement in this location on the corner of the road adjoining the top of Broads Yard, around the Morweth View development. Neither was the matter an issue locally.' Mr Candy said a full consultation had been carried out prior to the original application being dealt with, involving ward members, parish councillors, the County Highways surveyor and, more importantly, the local community. 'I am surprised and disappointed that someone like Graham Danton who, as a radio and television presenter, would know the importance of getting his facts right, did not check out the issues before making allegations of incompetency,' said Mr Candy. Responding to Mr Candy's comments, Mr Danton said residents wanted the fence removed and replaced with railings, which would at least enable motorists to see through the obstacle. 'This is not a time for excuses, but for action to resolve a problem which could cause a road accident,' he said. Neighbour Tony Guilfoyle agreed the fence was a 'real danger' and called for it to be removed immediately. He is urging anyone concerned about the situation to contact Caradon District Council with their views.
