Playing Politics

WHEN is politics serious and when does it become a game?
It appeared to become a game last week when Councillor Paul Torrance hauled himself out of his sickbed and Councillor Helen Moonie came home early from a conference in Edinburgh with the sole aim of defeating a Tory recommendation to turn down the application for a massive windfarm at Dersalloch, above Straiton
It was a good game. Five Labour councillors got together to overturn this recommendation - the vote was 5-4 - against the advice of planning officials who recommended refusal, against the wishes of neighbouring Labour controlled East Ayrshire Council (most of the site visual affects East Ayrshire above Dalmellington). Labour Justice Minister and MSP for the area Cathy Jamieson opposed the plan, as did thousands of residents who signed a petition to that effect.
But most of all Prestwick Airport opposed the plan as they foresaw problems with radar affecting flight plans and said openly this could affect the future development of the airport – and as a result could pose a threat to jobs out there.
But hey why should all that matter when Labour could get one over their Tory opponents. A great wheeze – and one that may come back to haunt them.
It is ironic that South Ayrshire should have had control over this decision considering the windfarm will have little impact on Straiton – it won`t be seen or heard from the village so there has been no great raising of voices against the plan there. It will of course bring a cash rental to the community. However it will impact on Dalmellington and maybe even the future of the airport.
It is now up to the Executive to decide on the future of the windfarm – while under the impression that South Ayrshire Council approves of it.
This is the type of behaviour that is putting people off voting – and quite a lot of them have been saying just that as I continue to go round the doors.
Dangerous roads – and driving – have again come to my attention this week – this time the target is the road between Maybole and Maidens, past Culzean..
It would appear a lot of traffic is taking this alternative route - the local theory is they are trying to avoid the speed cameras on the A77. They are speeding round dangerous bends on this lesser road many of them landing in fields and going through hedges according to the locals.
The villagers of Maidens are getting fed up with it – rightly so. Even horses from the riding stable are at risk as cars speed into the village. There is no horse warning sign as you get in other part of the area.
More warning signs and slowing down measures are definitely needed– something for the new council to tackle. I think.