Make sure council listens to the people

At the end, the band leader, Bob Haselip, announced that, once again, the Windmill is under threat, and could we fill in the leisure strategy feedback form and sign a petition.

When I read the form, I had to look very carefully to find out where the piece on the Windmill was. It was badly worded and misleading.

I would like to take issue with the statement that Arun District Council subsidises the Windmill. That is true, but the council also subsidises the two swimming/leisure centres run by Inspire Leisure. This was not mentioned, and therefore gives the impression that the Windmill is the only centre receiving a subsidy,and that council tax payers are financially supporting only the Windmill.

Inspire Leisure seems, to me, to do a good job as far as it is able, with the funds provided. If these buildings had been maintained by the council over the years, Inpsire would have been handed a much better investment. Yes, we need swimming, bowls, gyms, tennis courts and the like (although they need to be maintained as well), but we also need a cinema and theatre.

If a new, suitable site with easy access for all, can be found, all well and good. But why knock down a theatre/cinema that has all the facilities – a building that just needs some TLC, which over the years the council has neglected.

Please shout and make a noise to be heard, make sure our council listens to the people.

Lesley and Bryan Mercer,
Joan Rose

St Catherine’s Court

Littlehampton