Don't let these facilities go (From South Wales Argus)

Don't let these facilities go

3:12pm Monday 11th February 2013 in Letters

I AM keen to express my support for the campaign to save Brynmawr Market Hall Cinema and Nantyglo Leisure Centre, currently being led by the people of Brynmawr.

It saddens me to hear that the facilities, which I know are so valued by the local community, are under threat of closure as a result of cost-cutting by Blaenau Gwent Council. We are all aware that times are tough economically and accept that cuts must be made, but to wipe out two closely located leisure services in one fell swoop is ludicrous. Welsh Government guidelines state that all children and young people should be allowed access to a variety of recreational activities to secure optimum health and well-being, and the young people of Brynmawr and Nantyglo will be denied this if the proposed plans go ahead. The campaign to save both facilities has received a great deal of support so far and I am pleased to state my backing as well as my optimism that the right result can be achieved.

John Bufton UKIP MEP for Wales Powys