Listen to the residents

The majority of residents of Seaburn, Seafields, South Bents and Roker feel that the Airshow is tired and the intervals between the air events are too long.

Another serious problem is the lack of parking control, which is creating problems for residents whose drives are being blocked, cars are being damaged and when these irresponsible drivers are told by residents they reply with torrents of abuse and in some instances threats of physical violence.

Drunkeness and vandalism are two other issues that are raising their ugly heads and worrying people visiting the event with young children.

Surely, the organisers are aware of the hostility they are generating by ignoring these mounting numbers of complaints by people who have reached the end of their patience, and the answer from officials that if they want to live in or around the seafront they have no good reason for their objections against entertainment for those thousands of visitors who attend the show.

As for the traders who provide food, entertainment and the like, I wonder if they really benefit local traders. Many believe most of that benefit is taken out of the city.

Perhaps the time has come to think again as to which provisions should be provided along the seafront such as a swimming pool and an ice rink, both all round year activities, for parents of young people and healthy exercise facilities for those older people who want to stay fit and enjoy their lives.

I seriously doubt that the developer together with the council will agree with provision of these facilities as the formal application by Siglion to the City’s Planning committee will show when that eventually reaches the Civic Centre.

Coun George Howe,

Fulwell ward