reflect popular opinion.

That is the view of St. George's South Progressive Labour Party candidate, Mr.

Arthur Pitcher.

Mr. Pitcher has asked the Development Applications Board to reconsider their rejection which he says is not responsive to the needs of the St. David's community.

The controversial scheme to allow the marina to supply land traffic first came under fire from Shell general manager Mr. Bob Stewart.

Mr. Stewart accused the applicant Mr. Peter Pitcher of trying to break a moratorium on gas stations in the Island and pointed out that he owned a liquor store next door, which would encourage drinking and driving.

But the plan was turned down prompting the PLP candidate to become involved.

Mr. Pitcher said: "We have an ideal opportunity right now to spearhead some localised development in the St. David's area. It must be recognised that already there is a gas station in existence - a marine gas station.

"The suggestion now is simply to expand the current use to include providing gas to road traffic. It is not a totally different use.

"I hope the DAB took this into consideration, and did not reject it based on the same considerations as they would a de novo application.'' Mr. Pitcher said a recently televised straw poll indicates that a number of people feel the gas station is a good idea and it would help to ease traffic problems.

He said the West End was well served with stations at Dockyard and the Robinson's Marina station serves both land and marine traffic. But he said the East End is under-serviced.

He said: "I understand that Mr. Bob Stewart of Shell Oil accused the applicant Mr. Peter Pitcher of trying to break the moratorium on gas stations in the Island.

"I also recognise the Mr. Stewart as the general manager of Shell Oil has commercial concerns which must be a factor when he opposes the plan for a gas station in St. David's. This must also be taken into account by the DAB.

"My concern, however, is to see that the needs of the community as a whole are properly served. It is the best interests of the local community, in particular, and the community generally which must prevail.''