An open letter to Worthing Borough Council

We were approached this afternoon by a TWP Fan who sent this letter to local paper. S/he was promised that it would be published...however it was not, allegedly doe to the fact that it might upset come local Councillors. (Do WBC Councillors have an inappropriate influence in our local rag?)

Indeed our source tells us that they were actually THREATENED by a local Councillor regarding the content of this letter. In any case, we are happy to share this apparently explosive letter with you now...
This is a wake up call for the people of Worthing to express their opinions for the future development of their town at the local elections on the 3rd May. As a resident of Worthing for most of my life, I am concerned about the town's future ability to attract visitors to the area.

I have lost confidence in the local Council and our local MP's, who have failed to listen to local opinions and concerns – with anyone appearing to raise questions being labelled a 'political activist'.

My concern is for the future of Worthing and its citizens whichever party is in control of the Council.

In September 2009, I attended a presentation at the Ardington Hotel with local businessmen, several councillors and MP's, where a syndicate of profession businessmen proposed a plan to build a swimming pool complex. This incorporated an ice rink (which could double as a concert hall) plus the other usual facilities, on the site of the existing pool.

At the presentation, the Council was requested to provide information on the terms and conditions for a long term lease of the land, before the financial backers declared their interests and financial plans. This information was not forthcoming.

Later one of the Conservative Councillors wrote that the syndicate did not have money and inferred that it was a tactic by the Liberals to delay the production of the new pool, promised by the local Conservative Councillors.

The projected cost of the syndicate's scheme to the people of Worthing was minimal. The latest inferior Council version as reported on 27th October 2011, would cost the town £19.7 million. This is expected to rise further for the additional work re disabled access etc. Comparable swimming pools have been constructed for £10 - £11 million at other towns with similar populations.

Then we have the theatres costing £1.4 million a year under Council control, according to the Leader of the Council, including a ticket booking computer system which is not fit for purpose.

Then we have the Teville Gate saga, which keeps running on and on.

Enough said, but the people of Worthing do deserve better management of their assets.  

What do you think about this letter? Valid points or just moaning? Should it have published in the local paper? Share your views...