Sir, - Having read Frank McDonald's article "Consortium want major development for Bray" I would like to fill in some missing facts, if I may.
Firstly, it should be noted that the impression given that the developers' proposals have in some way been approved by the town's local authority is erroneous. Indeed, Bray UDC is about to employ its own consultants to come up with a programme of conservation and enhancement of the seafront. This programme will be devised only after full consultation with the citizens of Bray. While anyone - including developers - will have a right to make submissions to this process, the members of Bray UDC are adamant that it will be a scrupulously fair procedure.
Secondly, I'd like to make an obvious, but crucial, point. Bray seafront is a public space. At a time when private interests are pushing their own agenda so hard, this needs to be said. What is at issue is a public amenity much loved and used by residents and visitors alike, even though it is shabby and in need of enhancement. Businessmen may form a consortium to float any hare-brained idea they want - it is a free country, after all - but the seafront belongs to everyone.
Developers' hype, as published in the media, is no substitute for a full and thoughtful public debate about how we, the town's people, want to look after our seafront and its future. This week's public meeting in the Esplanade Hotel offers an opportunity to facilitate debate about Bray seafront. I think it is fair to say that, from the feedback I'm getting already, the debate is only beginning. - Yours, etc.,
Liz McManus TD, Bray, Co Wicklow.