THE controversial proposed development of the Westwood Cross shopping centre at Broadstairs will be debated at a public meeting on Sunday. Thanet Action Group is campaigning against the multi-million scheme that has already been granted outline planning permission.

The developers, Chelverton Properties say up to 1,300 full and part-time jobs could be created at Westwood Cross, a retail, leisure, office and community complex that would include a department store, multiplex cinema, national high street shops, a range of restaurants and cafes, plus other leisure attractions.

People attending the meeting at 4pm at the Pavilion in Harbour Street, Broadstairs, will be asked to vote for or against the scheme.

TAG spokesman Norman Thomas said the meeting will also give residents the opportunity to put questions about the way Thanet is governed. Thanet council leader Cllr Richard Nicholson will attend. He said: “I have been assured by Harry Lagan, from TAG, who will chair the meeting that it will only address the matter of Westwood Cross.

"This council has always maintained it will listen to the public’s concerns about any developments and schemes. A year ago, when planning permission was agreed for Westwood Cross, we had held a series of public consultations that resulted in only seven objections.”

Broadstairs businessman, Marino Morelli, will lead the speakers against the new development. In the summer he carried out his own referendum that showed an overwhelming number of those questioned were against the development.

Mr Thomas said the meeting will be a powerful example of people's democracy in action. He said: “The council isn't funding this meeting. We have called it because there is such huge concern.

“There is a widespread feeling that the council isn't listening to its electors, and meetings such as this will give it the chance to put its side of the argument.”

Chelverton Properties say up to 1,300 full and part-time jobs could be created at Westwood Cross, a retail, leisure, office and community complex that would include a department store, multiplex cinema, national high street shops, a range of restaurants and cafes, plus other leisure attractions.

Chelverton Properties estimate that the total investment value of the project will be about £70 million. They believe Westwood Cross would become a modern central destination to compete with Canterbury and other out of area shopping attractions.

Admission is free. To reserve a seat, telephone 01843 863 436.