I AM writing to express my disgust at the overwhelming hypocrisy of the councillors who turned down the planning permission of the barn at Ashbury, near Northlew. In 2002/3 the council gave permission for the Ashbury Farm complex to be totally given over to housing, with several high value properties resulting. This barn, being less than a quarter of a mile away, was part of the same property. Recently I read in your paper that 750 houses (a small town) were to be built at Tavistock, presumably on good agricultural land, because the house developers were going to 'contribute' to the extension of the railway. Yesterday I passed Hemerden just north of Plympton, to witness what must be the biggest destruction of Dartmoor in years, with hundreds of acres of land going under the bulldozers for a mine. Yet, as I read your paper, it becomes apparent that those living on Dartmoor cannot even change windows without permission. Even barns within sight of the latest 'urban sprawl' of the Crediton Road, Okehampton have been refused permission! The barn, at Ashbury, has been unused and semi-derelict in excess of the 18 years we have lived nearby. The present owner I assume is not asking for council finance, but using his own money to turn what will now be an eyesore for years to come, into a house, that we are continually told is so desperately needed. One rule for one and one for another? In May these same councillors will be at our doors seeking re-election. Are they really surprised when the voters become cynical and don't bother? R Colbear Northlew