by aileenandfearghal » 14 Feb 2007, 12:30
We love the idea of there being a sailing club in porty from a selfish point of view. The beach is right there at the end of Bath Street and it would be amazing to have the facility to get out there and sail.
Being outdoory people and teachers we can also see the benefit to the community as a whole. The more people we can get outside and get involved the better for a whole multitude of reasons.
Being new to the area, we're a bit unaware of the history and politics surrounding these issues - but it's perfectly understandable that people will have objections. If you're not interested in sailing, you're unlikely to see any benefits to having this on your doorstep - only problems. Unfortunatley, such is the nature of life, this is likely to be the case no matter where the club is sited. It is a bit surprising however that the above document tries to sell that piece of grass as some sort of invaluable amenity to the community. Not many would believe that and I think this detracts from their argument.
As far as we know, Jonathan has decided that a sailing club would be a good idea and is doing his best to make this happen. There probably are alternative locations for it, but he has gone ahead with what he sees as the best one and is planning to do it in the most sustainable and considerate way possible.
So, he has put forward his idea and others are putting forward their objections. It is up to the council to decide what is the best thing to do for the community as a whole. This is the way it goes when we're all living in a fairly small space.
Sorry, I seem to be rambling. Just some thoughts on the matter.
Fearghal