Wouldn't it be fantastic to have abundant facilities for all ages and all interests? We have a superb opportunity to convert the ex council yard area bordering on the river into a leisure and recreational area which everyone could use and which would become a legacy for future generations as well as bringing in tourists and visitors from other areas.

The area is easy to get to and noise levels would not disturb residents. Proposed development of the river area would provide opportunities for fishing, boating, canoeing as well as nature walks and educational pursuits.

It is high time Beverley had its own multi purpose stadium where residents could meet, play or watch local sporting events such as rugby, football, athletics and cycling etc. Such a stadium could easily double up for music events.

An arts centre near the stadium with an auditorium/theatre for dance, dramatic and musical events as well as housing smaller rooms for practice sessions and rehearsals sessions for arts, crafts, dance and music.

The benefits to the community would be superb and obviously the cost of financing, building and running these recreational areas would be tremendous, but I would look at the following areas for funds.

Rather than developing another retail park on this site with all the ensuing competition, we should ask local businesses to help sponsor and support the recreational area in some way and local businesses that support the schemes should be recognised.

By providing these facilities there would be less vandalism and anti social behaviour. We would have healthier, happier people who could pursue a variety of interests in their leisure time.

I have travelled extensively and wherever I have been, I have used and observed local recreational facilities, often with awe and envy. ,We do have some excellent facilities such as the Leisure Centre but we have an opportunity here to create something that will lead to happier, healthier lifestyles for all.
We owe it to our children as well as ourselves to develop this area and leave a legacy of recreational facilities rather than yet more shops and retail outlets.

Hilary Usher
Outer Trinities, Beverley.