Who do we represent?

I used to be a voluntary resident member of a neighbourhood management board. Recently the board decided to change a traffic flow and effectively create a one-way system. I voted against the plan, with several others on the board.

I was then approached by several residents and a business who were affected by the change and I myself now have to drive half a mile to get 15 yards.

The neighbourhood manager advised me that nothing could be done. When I told her that I was going to consult with my elected member, she advised me not to because I was speaking against the board and that would make the board unprofessional and would face disciplinary action.

I had no choice but to resign. I thought neighbourhood management was about residents leading the way to change their neighbourhoods, but this is not the case.

My community is very supportive of my decision, but I believe it indicates a weakness in regeneration: board members cannot represent the community to their full potential.