YOUR article (Parks review is 'not cost cutting exercise' by Roger Williams, BEN: June 20) raises an issue of potential long-term, critical concern to all residents of, workers in, and tourists to Bolton.
The hint of privatisation raises the twin spectres of land sales for housing development and of increased charges for the use of facilities. However much Cllr Byrne downplays the potential extent of sales, such fears are easily aroused in local communities. The poor turnout in the General Election indicates an increased lack of trust in politicians of whatever hue, which does nothing for acceptance of Cllr Byrne's assurances.
Our open spaces must be preserved for a wide variety of reasons. Parks are the environmental lungs of Bolton. They provide affordable, accessible and enjoyable means for people to be physically active at a time when we are trying to combat a rising tide of both diabetes and obesity (for which physical activity is the most effective means of control). They are a pleasant area for providing open-air entertainment.
It seems to me that, rather than consider privatisation options, we should be looking at ways to make greater use of the parks for sport, recreation and entertainment. Greater use would be reflected in higher income from the amenities, in a healthier, active population and in improved community spirit. Such a positive approach appeals far more than taking the apparently easy option of privatisation and wins out on the three fronts of health, community spirit and income generation.
Michael G Coulson
Bromwich Street
Bolton YOUR article (Parks review is 'not cost cutting exercise' by Roger Williams, BEN: June 20) raises an issue of potential long-term, critical concern to all residents of, workers in, and tourists to Bolton.
The hint of privatisation raises the twin spectres of land sales for housing development and of increased charges for the use of facilities. However much Cllr Byrne downplays the potential extent of sales, such fears are easily aroused in local communities. The poor turnout in the General Election indicates an increased lack of trust in politicians of whatever hue, which does nothing for acceptance of Cllr Byrne's assurances.
Our open spaces must be preserved for a wide variety of reasons. Parks are the environmental lungs of Bolton. They provide affordable, accessible and enjoyable means for people to be physically active at a time when we are trying to combat a rising tide of both diabetes and obesity (for which physical activity is the most effective means of control). They are a pleasant area for providing open-air entertainment.
It seems to me that, rather than consider privatisation options, we should be looking at ways to make greater use of the parks for sport, recreation and entertainment. Greater use would be reflected in higher income from the amenities, in a healthier, active population and in improved community spirit. Such a positive approach appeals far more than taking the apparently easy option of privatisation and wins out on the three fronts of health, community spirit and income generation.
Michael G Coulson
Bromwich Street
Bolton
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