Sir, Having read Mr. Calver's letter printed in your issue dated January 20, it would seem that the prospect of further noise pollution is an issue which continues to raise concerns with the residents of Manorbier community, and so it should continue, for this is an issue that, if given the go ahead, may have a dramatic impact on the lives of many people, not to mention businesses, tourism, wildlife and possible damage to people's health. Surely, until further independent comprehensive monitoring is carried out and all the residents' concerns have been addressed, it would be totally unfair to force this unwanted disturbance upon the good people of Manorbier, Lydstep and Jameston. Given that the people of Jameston and Lydstep were overlooked when the monitoring was carried out, it is understandable that they now feel hard done by. Such an issue must be given serious consideration, and these people's concerns should be addressed. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority will soon make a decision on the planning application and, as stated, 'unless a valid reason for rejection of the application is made', then it would seem that the MOD would have the green light to carry out night-time firing. However, there are many members of the community who feel that they do indeed have valid reasons, (which contravene Tan 11) and are hoping that their perception of valid does not differ too greatly to that of the National Parks. With regard to Mr. Calver's reference of 'doing our bit for our nation and training our service personnel', we are sure the majority would agree with this if it were for our own troops only. However, he failed to mention that this facility may also be open to the Dutch, Belgians and other European nations. To grant the application on a probationary basis would not be welcomed at all by the residents and would be an unfair intrusion to many. With regard to his comments about being saddened by the attitude of the community councillors, one would do well to remember that these community councillors are acting on behalf of the residents of the community and any decisions made should be in the best interests of the community. Should a county councillor not do the same by his constituents? The issue of our children's sleep patterns should not be taken lightly, as these youngsters are the nation's future, and it should be in everyone's interest to remember this. They already have to bear the noise of low flying aircraft during schooling hours, which undoubtedly has an affect on their concentration levels. Sleep deprivation will only add to the already hard job our teachers have in capturing the children's much-needed, undivided attention. To crave further disturbance is not rational and as the nighttime firing will bring no advantages with it, then I think the councillors have acted correctly. To seek further advice, reassurance and honest answers to the questions our residents have put forward, and feel so strongly about, can only be a positive step. The council should listen to the concerns of the residents with a sympathetic ear, and show their support to the residents of our community - surely that's what a community council should be doing! There may well be hope yet for the residents, as the Pembrokeshire National Park, taking a cautious approach, have deferred the planning application until February. Many wait in hope of a favourable outcome and that common sense and a sympathetic approach will be taken.
Peter Kidney, Terry John, Manorbier Community Councillors.