WE write to express our objection in the strongest possible terms to the demolition of Ashton Gardens Pavilion in St Annes that sits as a picturesque backdrop to the park, the children's playground and bowling green.

We ask that Fylde Borough Council considers very carefully the implications of destruction, namely:-

1. The pavilion is an attractive feature of an historic, Grade II listed park, within a conservation area that is part of the heritage of the town.

2. Local feeling against demolition is very strong. Encroachment of a high building of flats will spoil both the view and the tranquillity.

3. English Heritage is against demolition.

4. Demolition of the pavilion is likely to have a detrimental effect on the bid for funding from the Heritage and Lottery Fund.

5. Once sold, you, the Council on behalf of the people, have no guarantee what type of resident you will have, and the building itself is in the future likely to attract graffiti and/or undesirables in its dark corners, near to a children's playground.

Having spoken to the planning department, we understand that meetings on this issue were the most vociferous of recent years.

Having spoken to English Heritage, we find that they are firmly against demolition and feel that any decision of this nature is premature in view of the fact that you are seeking Lottery funding. Anything that is detrimental to the appearance of the park could prejudice your bid.

Are all members aware that English Heritage feel that any decision to demolish would have a negative effect on their bid?

Have the council sought advice from the HLF on the implications of demolition?

When the Safeways development was stopped, we believed there was a ruling that the park should be safeguarded for the future. What has happened to that ruling now?

It is ironic and incredible that the sale and consequent demolition of a heritage building is likely to provide the match funding for the council in its bid to the HLF.

We strongly urge you to consider carefully all the implications, to the local people who use the park every day, to the many visitors we still have and to the bid for HLF Funding that is for the benefit of the whole town.

We ask, respectfully, that this letter be brought to the attention of all members at the full council meeting on October 1, and request a reply to our questions. We can only hope that good sense will prevail and that the heritage of our town will not be destroyed for money.

Mrs F Greenwood,

long term resident of Lytham St Annes & family,

St Hilda's Road, St Annes.