Is it legal for developers to solicit letters of support in the street

[editor]

This really doesn't seem right to me - a multinational developer wants to plonk a huge tower block in the middle of Brixton. It has virtually zero public support so it's sent people out in the street to get them to sign pre-filled in letters of support for the planning application.

The letter is skewed to make the development a thing of wonder for the local community but makes no mention of the associated mega-tower and no illustrations were offered.

Hondo start soliciting signatures in the street to support their unpopular Brixton Enormo-Tower

With Lambeth’s planning site currently showing no less than 848 objections to Hondo’s proposed 20-storey tower in the heart of Brixton – and just 7 people in support – the c…

www.brixtonbuzz.com

Reader comment:

I was approached and very actively misled about the content of the letter. I was told that it was a letter in support of the developments community resource aspects being secured. If I wasn’t aware of the development I probably would have signed. The person in question also claimed to have nothing to do with Hondo!? Using her free time to trick people into signing support letters that are described as otherwise apparently.

 

[cupid_stunt]

I doubt it's illegal, those against it can do the same.

 

[Pickman's model]

i think you'll find people can ask all sorts of things in the street, but other people don't have to respond - eg the cops can ask for your mother's maiden name but you don't have to tell them. something being legal doesn't mean it's not distasteful or unethical