IF it is true that the proposed new multi-million pound, multi-purpose leisure centre for Darwen is to be split over two sites, would the councillors who support such a decision please hold up their hands?

I would have thought major reasons for having a brand new multi-purpose leisure centre complex on one site near the town centre would be to a) provide the residents of Darwen with easily- accessible first class leisure facilities under one roof, b) attract national and regional level events in a number of sports, especially swimming, and c) provide much-needed regional and local squad training facilities for keen competitive swimmers.

To split the site works against any rational aspirations for high quality squad training, as swimming and land training facilities would be over a mile apart.

If Darwen eventually ends up with split-site leisure facilities, a) it will be impractical for members of the public who wish to use the gym and then go for a swim after their gym session and b) will be a waste of money, as two sets of staff will be required to run split-site facilities. Moreover, split-site facilities do not represent the national norm, and are unlikely to provide best value for money for new multi-purpose leisure facilities.

Whether we need an eight-lane 25-metre pool in Darwen is also contentious; six lanes and a decent sports complex on one site would probably suit the town's leisure need admirably.

Such a complex would allow regional swimming competitions, and teaching and coaching courses to be hosted in the town.

If it is true that there is insufficient space for the present plans, this should have been worked out and been cogently obvious at the initial planning stage. Or are we still at the initial planning stage? If so, why not make some more space available?

If we are to have a new multi-million pound, multi-purpose leisure centre, and some feel it is unnecessary, I'd be very happy with a six-lane pool and sports complex under one roof close to the town centre.

Any money saved should be spent on putting more police patrols back on the streets and keeping Darwen police station open around the clock. Come on Blackburn with Darwen councillors, let's have some clear thinking on this issue.

GEORGE J HILL, Darwen resident.