Croydon Council’s difficult relations with the press
Croydon Council’s difficult relations with the press were
beautifully illustrated recently when their CEO Jon Rouse orchestrated a move
to have reporters ejected from a public meeting. See earlier blogs.
But, in a bizarre twist, he subsequently issued a response
to reporters questions about the long-awaited regeneration of West
Croydon after the 2011 August riots, SIX DAYS LATER! No wonder he wanted the press out – he couldn’t
answer their questions.
The press asked about new car parking in the area for
shoppers. But it appears there won’t be
any. Here’s the six days late, stilted, over-written,
jargon-infested, statement.
"One of West Croydon’s great strengths is its public transport
accessibility.
"The council is
building on these strengths through the Connected Croydon programme to enhance
walking routes to, from and within the Croydon town centre and its public
transport hubs.
"Future developments
in and around the London Road area – including potential residential schemes
and any new school proposals – will each be subject to planning applications
and will be required to meet the parking and transport policies and standards
set out in the London Plan and Croydon’s planning framework."
In reference to
getting a police shop-front on the London Road, the council said: "Police
are about to consult on the Public Access Strategy which will have a range of
options to cover how, where and in which way the public can communicate and
meet with the police.
"At its heart is
the need to increase police officer visibility.
"Proposals could
include options to ensure a police officer presence at various locations in the
borough, including London Road,
eg at the CVA."
The council also gives
an indication of what the London
Road traders should be doing to improve their
relationship with the local authority.
The council spokesman
added: "We suggest that businesses become members of the London Road
Traders’ Association and work collaboratively."
And here’s Job Rouse’s justification for ejecting the press:
“FOLLOWING reports about my attitude to being scrutinised by
the media at the West Croydon Community Forum meeting last week, I would like
to take this opportunity to say that I value and expect press scrutiny of my
actions in administrating council services.
Where I seek to draw the line, though, is in not getting
involved in public debate about council policy, which is more properly a matter
for cabinet members. That is because I am not an elected politician and I need
to be politically neutral at all times. This is crucial to my role as the most
senior public servant on the council and, indeed, as acting returning officer
for the borough. During my time at Croydon, I have always been prepared to give
account for the matters for which I am responsible. I would also like to make
clear that it was the forum's community representatives who made the decision to
exclude the press. I would have abided by their decision either way.”
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