Carl, I don’t envy your current position. I’ve seen this before in years gone by. Just remember it is not what you know but who you know who will overturn your position in this experience your enduring.
.I had a situation when I applied to start my business many years ago whereby the Parish council were against it but South Norfolk granted permission . One by one in time every member of the parish council became customers ! I am now vice chairperson of the Parish council . Wake up North Norfolk to the benefits of local successful business’ and employment it brings , not to mention the reduced carbon footprint of the car not having to go so far for service/repairs .