Carrick Comment

Published on 21/01/2009 14:59

NO MATTER how dire the economic climate may be, to deprive a holiday resort of its swimming pool is nothing less than crass stupidity.

The response from ratepayers after the loss of the Girvan amenity is a clear indication that South Ayrshire Council and its elected members made a grave miscalculation that will have far-reaching repercussions - not least at the ballot box.

Public representatives should remember they are nothing more than that - elected to serve the people of the area, not to justify the council's less than even-handed treatment of Carrick residents.

As the campaign to restore or replace our public baths gathers momentum, serious questions must be answered by the local authority.

Money was allocated for the pool's maintenance. What happened to it?

If cash shortage remains such a crucial issue, why is South Ayrshire prepared to spend in excess of 400,000 on recruiting new heads of department instead of filling the posts from its existing workforce?

And isn't it just a little insensitive for council leaders to be jetting off to Dubai as a forerunner to the Open?

If the countless letters flooding into the Gazette offices are anything to go by, it will be a long time before this matter goes away!

Tempers fray as critics hit home

Theatrical Iain offers cash hope

Lifeboatman John warns of danger for non-swimmers

Club left high and dry

Primary pupils pen pool protest

Gazette Comment

Confidential report that led to closure

Girvan refuses to give up pool

Pooling resources offers net gain

Outrage over loss of vital amenity

Dubai junket leaves a sour taste

Council took fees on eve of closure

Pool campaign finds sanctuary

Gazette gives pool views a public hearing

Timing of trip left a lot to be desired

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