Developer alleges 'corrupt practices' in preparation of Strategic Plan

Henry Kennaugh, a Director of local development company Baccarat, has circulated a letter - to all Members of Tynwald, in advance of the planned debate in Tynwald this week on the Island's strategic planning document - spelling out pretty bluntly his view on the process adopted by the planning department.

In the letter, he claims that the Minister of the DLGE, John Shimmin MHK, will not have informed Members that his department ignored the recommendations of the Independent person, who preside over the Public Inquiry, to undertake "particularized studies".

The letter also states that the Minister "will not have told you that the plan has been nurtured by corrupt practices of which he has been made aware which are deep in the heart of the Strategic Plan which is not in the public interest."

Mr Kennaugh is of the opinion that the failings inherent in the withdrawn Braddan Plan are replicated in the Strategic Plan, the same personnel being involved in both.

He suggests that the Order before Tynwald should be considered "as not fit for purpose and not within the public's interest" and that Members are being unfairly asked to sacrifice their principles and to back the Order to save Mr Shimmin's political career.

He accuses Mr Shimmin of suffering from "arrogance of power" and ends his letter by asking "how many souls Mr Shimmin has yet been able to buy".

The Manx Herald believes that there will be an attempt by the Liberal Vannin Party to amend the motion, seeking approval of the Order, calling for the Order to be brought back to a sitting later in the year.