[Timmo]

I cannot see the rationale for this decision- there is already a cable in the area that does NOT attract rowdy crowds, noise or pollution, so why would another cause these apparent problems? Look at the success of Princes, more than one cable, no youth problems I've ever seen. Quite the opposite in fact, all you see there are energised aspirational youngsters eager to particiapte. Perhaps the Councillors should visit other, larger facilities before making up their minds? Princes would not have been there for what, 50+ years, if all it gave was problems. It doesn't, nor will this.

Many of the regulars at WMSki are locals which proves it DOES give "youth" things to do and clearly does not encourage this anti-social behaviour.

This will bring employment to the area- more staff will be needed, and they're skilled jobs with essential, transferable skills, how many other (some, not all of the staff but Tom etc are) 16- 22 year olds who become mechanics and safety experts, including needing to know about first aid, develop communication skills, etc, etc? They're not engaged in anti-social activities, they're working, and everyone who works at WMSki is professional, courteous, and enjoys their job.

It will also attract more people like me to the area, possibly permanently, travelling from Bristol for my regular riding causes unnecessary pollution and other than the cable (& boat) I spend most of my hard earned in my local area, not this one. I'm 30, and in a profession of only 1500 (Patent Attorney's) in the country. Do a simple survey of 1000 30 year old professional people who given the choice would rather live in South Cerney than Bristol? As a single, direct result of an improvement of these facilities, I would rather be there. The Council can either ENcourage positive inflows of people whom I dare say it would like to have living there, or not.

If the planners had looked at the demographic of those who are regular riders (Will, sure all season ticket holders would consent to a simple passing of dates of birth to them) then they'd see the type of people this attracts are reasonably similar to myself- it is a cheap hobby in comparison to many others, it's only expensive if you buy all the kit, which you don't have to do. These are the sorts of people the current cable attracts. Why would another be different?

This Saturday morning myself and 20 other young professionals (typically 20- 35 years old), have a private hire session for 2 hours (a corporate event), bringing money in the area from all over the country, introducing those who've not done it before to a fantastic sport. Many come time after time, from very far away. Double the facilities, double the potential, for similar events, not for "late night nonsense".


Joining the FB book group now (yes I know a 30 y.o. shouldn't be on there!)

and will see you Sat Will, keep it sunny will you?!?

Tim