LETTER: Crazy not to sell the farms

I would like to congratulate Eastbourne Borough Council for its proposal to build a new leisure complex in the town. Replacing the Sovereign Centre is long overdue. It has served thousands of people and families very well. My children learned to swim there and I still enjoy a few lengths when my hip isn't playing up.

Unfortunately, while the staff try hard to make the place a quality experience, it’s lost most of its shine.

At the same time as this exciting proposal is announced I see a few people are upset the council intends to sell four small farms to raise the funds they need to invest in projects like this.

That’s just crazy.

What’s wrong with the farms going into private ownership if it helps local families enjoy a great new leisure centre or better downland facilities or improvements in Devonshire Park?

The vast majority of downland farms are already in private ownership and have been for generations, but it doesn’t stop anyone using the downland. I bet the green lobby don’t put this on their pamphlets!

The council should press on. There are a lot of exciting developments happening in Eastbourne currently and I speak for the majority when I say I’ll be furious if a minority stops it happening.

Gordon Foreman

Susans Road

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There’s recipes, suggestions for presents and everything from choosing your tree to recycling your packaging and paper.

Go to www.eastbourneherald.co.uk/christmas/