GAUGING demand for something is a fairly innocuous matter in the general run of things.
However, when the thing for which demand is being gauged is a public facility and the organisation doing the gauging is a public body, alarm bells begin to ring loud and clear.
As we reveal today, Swindon Council has announced an audit of the pitches it owns across the borough.
Perhaps it is unfair to find this news worryingg, but in view of some events over recent years we suspect there will be a great deal of worry.
As we recall, the last sites sites to be investigated in this manner were the council’s portfolio of leisure centres, golf course and the like. On that occasion the investigation formed a prelude to the controversial hiving off of many of those facilities to the private sector. The new management teams have not always been sensitive to the needs and wants of users.
It is also worth remembering that councils of various political complexions have sold off sports pitches over the years, including some gifted to the community in perpetuity.
We strongly suggest that any group currently using a pitch makes sure to let their local councillor know how much it means to its members.
Members themselves should also make sure they’re not backward in coming forward.