Hi Andrew
The hardest position to put oneself in is someone else’s. That was what I was trying to do in my last posting.
Prior to the meeting many people were led to believe that the Township Forum was to make the decision on the skatepark. I have voiced my opposition prior to the meeting that this was not a correct position.

I myself was led to believe this was the case. And it was for that reason that I was disturbed that it should be so. I received an email from Rodney Hill that stated-
“The final decision will be taken at the Ashton Township Forum on September 5th”

So what happened on Monday night, you walked in with Rodney Hill and his colleague. Hardly something to inspire a belief in impartiality. We then sat through sixty minutes when views for and against were expressed, A vote was taken, that went against the skatepark. I then as you know asked, what was the position as regards the vote, as I did not believe the Forum had the right to make that decision. Then and only then were we informed, quite rightly, that the vote was only advisory.

If Rodney Hill had made his mind up before the meeting. That is within his remit, what I find offensive is he failed to inform the meeting that was the case, only when I asked the question, did he say the skatepark was going ahead.

As for your comments in your last posting
Am I incorrect in believing that the 'majority' of the contrasting views with Jubilee skatepark have somewhat much more deeper and sinister roots, than the objections that would represent the understandable views of local residents in relation to noise and litter etc?
Maybe a political undertone was the dominating factor in all of this? I regrettably believe this was so!

Sadly I can reply with a one word answer NO, (actually I agree, but you have asked a question in the negative!!!!!!!) Furthermore I believe much of the opposition showed political naivety, Unlike Rodney Hill’s presentation, look at the way he mentioned, at least twice, how the people in The Strand and Strand Avenue said they paid the highest rates. Hardly a valid point against the skatepark, but one that discredited their opposition.

In closing I am glad the skatepark is going ahead where it is, but I am sure you agree there are many more, important topics concerning Ashton and if the Township Forum is to continue as pressure group to the elected and paid officials it needs to be treated with more respect than it was on Monday night.

Regards
Alan

Town: ajames46@fsmail.net

Does no one else find the music on BTT's home page amusing?

Town: moshman01@hotmail.com

Go on Aaron enlighten me, what is the music?
You see I am an old square.

Alan

Town: ajames46@fsmail.net

If you listen to it long enough you will recognise it. BUT the music is 'We are the champions' by Queen. May be a little hazey since its in midi format and the verses arent quite as memorable. I thought it may be one of the more widely recognised tunes.

Town: moshman01@hotmail.com