Pool future (From Barry And District News)

Pool future

FOR MANY months now, the argument over our beloved Knap Pool has raged on and on.

I have read almost every letter printed and I sympathise with all who regret the demise of our pool. It's sentimental claptrap to actually want a reopening. There is no way that it can, or should, happen.

But as strongly as I feel about that, I feel as strongly that the site should never be used for commercial development. So where does that leave us?

We have a magnificent site that could be used for the benefit and education of the young people of Barry. I am not a social 'do gooder' who believes everyone should be given a chance, regardless of their criminal past, far from it. But I do believe that there are many kids out there in Barry who would benefit from a facility that would enhance their outlook on life.

The Knap site should not be commercialised for the benefit of developers and council ego. It would take many years and considerable funding to bring about a whole new vitality to the area.

Exactly how that would happen is unknown. I would leave that to more qualified people than I, although I do have my own ideas regarding a cultural centre based on the history and long-term future of Barry, with mainly the youngsters in mind.

It could end up being a fitting tribute to those who built the Knap for the people and for those, like myself, who enjoyed the facilities it provided. Time moves on to the 21st century.

Robert David Atkinson Address supplied