Local Plan 2011-2031 Proposed Submission Draft

I am writing to express my wholehearted support for more sporting facilities to be built in Baldock, especially a new home for Baldock Town FC.

Although I no longer live in the town, I grew up there, I still have a deep affection for the place, and I still consider it my 'home town'. To me, the lack of sporting facilities for adults and especially children in a town of that size is shocking, and with Baldock set to double in terms of population over the next few years, the problem will get worse.

All towns need good sporting facilities. With obesity a growing problem, it is imperative that people of all ages are given the opportunity to exercise and keep fit. It is essential to get kids interested in sport at an early age - not only for the physical advantages, but for giving them something to keep them occupied and out of trouble.

A new home for Baldock Town FC should play a vital part in this - sports clubs can be the heartbeat of a town, providing excellent facilities for the community, and providing a sense of pride when things are going well on the pitch.

It is scandalous that BTFC are unable to play in the town. Myself and my friends spent many happy Saturday afternoons at Norton Road supporting the Reds when we were youngsters, and it's a real shame that children growing up in the town today cannot do the same in the town.

I urge you all, for the sake of the town, to ensure that there is suitable provision for community sporting facilities within any development plan for the future, the centre piece of which should be a new home for Baldock Town FC that the town, and the whole of North Herts can be truly proud of.