Sir,
Clr. Calver, in his letter in last week's Observer, has once again misrepresented the true position regarding the National Park Development Committee's approval of the introduction of night- firing at the Manorbier range. Your readers should be aware of the following facts:
1. In the opinion of many present, the committee was not objective and even-handed in its approach as the many valid points raised by a vast number of objectors were given scant time and attention. A complaint to this effect has already been submitted to the authority.
2. Many of the objectors are directly involved in tourism, not only in the vicinity of Manorbier, but from a wider area around South Pembrokeshire, including at least one major business in Lydstep.
3. Low-flying aircraft was mentioned as yet another example of the escalation of activities at the range.
4. The range is operated as a commerical undertaking.
5. The committee did not ask the question applied to other applications, namely: 'Does this proposal conserve and enhance the National Park?'
It is incongruous for a local councillor to support an activity which will render great harm to the health and well-being of the community and local tourism economics.
If the councillor believes the planning decision ends local resistance to the escalation of activities at the range, he is mistaken: it has only just begun!
Andrew McCabe, Manorbier.