Bulldozer option a disaster

I have read that the Craven Arms Sports and Social Club is likely to close, with the site bring bulldozed for a car park. The club, also known as The British Legion Club, has provided for the social needs of the area for many years.

Since the ballroom was built in 1975 it has been a venue for live shows, wrestling matches, dancing and private parties.

The spacious billiard hall has three full-size tables and is well used. The ballroom is presently used three times every week for dancing, with people attending from many towns and villages.

To learn of this news reminds me of the demise of the former ballroom at the nearby Craven Arms Hotel.

Many complained, but said or did nothing, allowing it to happen, with many regrets since.

The Social Club is a registered club and has been a financial success over many years. I understand membership has dropped and is presently about 250.

With proper management, a check on its finances and a lick of paint, this club has the potential to succeed.

To suggest that it might be turned into a car park is inconceivable. The only people to benefit would be the commuters who work in the recently erected high rise offices just across the road where car parking is already at a premium.

It is hoped that the Craven Arms Partnership and the district council have a rethink on these proposals and allow time to examine the potential of these premises and to see that Craven Arms is promoted in a more positive manner.

R Heighway, Craven Arms