IN response to the letter 'Let's look to our futures' - Lowestoft Journal August 7, 2009 - I make the following comments for consideration in your Letters page.
IN response to the letter 'Let's look to our futures' - Lowestoft Journal August 7, 2009 - I make the following comments for consideration in your Letters page.
'Let's look to our futures' is an admirable sentiment expressed eloquently.
However, I reflect the thoughts of a writer far greater than either of us, by saying that, in looking to the future, we must learn from the past. After over 35 years in 'education' I have seen policies change with the political climate of the times.
Lothingland Middle - once central to a series of villages - became isolated by political boundary changes. The large site of Oulton Broad Primary on the Gorleston Road was, even in the 1980s, deemed 'too small.' Efforts to save part of it for community use failed and the whole site is now covered with houses.
More recently at Reydon, the once fine and admired High School was, despite its size, felt to be inadequate to meet the needs of its pupils and after some years of dereliction, was sold for building.
What we can learn from this is that communities cannot trust 'education;' what is in vogue today - is not tomorrow. Once 'education' owns the Village Hall and adjacent bowling green at Corton, then the land and its usage is in the hands of the 'politics of the time' and not the villagers of Corton. Keeping the amenities of Corton in the control of the village community is safer - although in itself, this is no guarantee of a future. I had a warm reception when I lectured in Corton Village Hall - the hall was 'tired,' but warm and the hospitality wonderful.
Mr Holt's suggestion that the bowling green becomes a school 'sports field' is somewhat misleading given the size of the space available. The new facilities offered to children in the 'option' that doesn't use the hall and Bowling Green, appear well thought out by the Council and, if the staff of the school are enthusiastic, will impress parents, as they will Ofsted.
It is not 'buildings' but 'people' who motivate parents and enthuse children. I'm sure the village of Corton is not 'ruled by a bowls' club.' This is emotive and unhelpful language.
Perhaps the younger generation should be encouraged to take up the sport and bring a new vigour to the club. Bowling is a sport for all ages and, as Drake once suggested, gave important time for reflection. I would urge the villagers of Corton to do just that.
PETER COX
The Crescents
Reydon
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