I AM confused as to why the opportunity to develop the town’s Leisure Centre has not been fully realised.

Since the Leisure Centre was built back in the 70s the population of Andover has grown significantly. Whilst some of this population growth was hopefully accounted for in the original design the current facility falls well short of meeting the existing demands placed on it.

This becomes fully apparent when trying to book any of the courts or when trying to book classes outside 9am to 16pm weekdays and anytime over the weekend.

The above also applies to the gym where the greatest exercise can, at times, be spent pacing around trying to find equipment to use.

The extant and future growth in Andover has been identified by South West Trains by significantly increasing car parking, the bus station has been expanded to meet existing and future growth demands, the fast food outlets have identified the existing and future growth in Andover by opening new premises eg McDonalds and every pizza establishment.

Why therefore has TVBC decided to build a new facility with little or no increase in existing capacity? What usage figures did TVBC use to determine capacity requirements moving forward?

Who did they consult with, and why did such a big infrastructure project for Andover appear not to have had any consultation or engagement with the local community?

Barry Knight, Blendon Drive, Andover