SUPPORTERS and objectors of Leigh's proposed multi-millon pound Sports Village will get the chance to air their views at the end of the month.

The Leigh & District Sports Partnership which incorporates all professional and amateur clubs, schools and Leigh Sixth Form College, has arranged for the Council and the developers to give a full presentation of the latest plans for the Village.

This will take place at Hilton Park at 6.30pm on Friday, May 30. There will be a further meeting the following Thursday (7.30pm Mick Martyn Bar at Hilton Park) which follows Chris Maile's meeting last week at Leigh Cricket Club.

Trevor Barton, chairman of the Leigh & District Sports Partnership, says: "The meeting on May 30 will give people the details of who to write to in support of the planning application and will also give some pointers on some of the issues supporters may wish to include.

"It will also show how the application has evolved as a result of real public consultation.

"This in no way is meant to prevent anyone from doing their own thing in the meantime, but supporters across the whole of the commmunity may see it as a means of getting the facts to argue the case more convincingly."

Derek Beaumont, Leigh Centurions Executive Director says: " I think it is vitally important that the first reaction to an objection is to acknowledge it in order to have any chance to overcome it.

"I hear that a seasoned campaigner has opposed the development on behalf of local residents. At times it is important to attempt to understand issues from the other side to strengthen your argument and position. In practical terms it is better to be aware of the argument in order that you can eradicate it or overcome it.

"I am sure some local residents have valid concerns that merely need genuine responses. Failure to do this can enhance the opposition to such a worthwhile project. Xanadu 2 it certainly isn't, however failure to accept genuine concerns feeds such rebellions. Surely it is better to adopt the attitude of Trevor Barton and make available all the facts to all concerned in order that everybody gets to voice their opinions.

Campaigners

"It is my belief that this course of action will reduce the opposition to the development and further increase its chances. Believe me, even the hardest campaigners become redundant without support and by being open, honest and forthcoming with the details will enable people to side with the development and eradicate the need for them to rely on seasoned campaigners to help themselves be heard.

"As a local, family and businessman I find the development refreshing and positive for the town of Leigh. It will raise the profile of the town as well as the facilities rather than further reduce them as I believe has been the case in the past. The sporting facilities will improve what is already a haven for sport. The increased footflow to the town, utilising the retail development, will bring greater awareness to many businesses in the area.

"As a director of Leigh RL I am duty bound to ensure its future and ambitions and I believe that with the correct commercial agreements the development will give the Centurions the opportunities it has long been overdue.

"Shoulder to shoulder with Trevor Barton and many others I ask that instead of a minority of people speaking their oppositions to the project that those in favour make themselves heard instead of expecting that to be expressed by others.

"Attend the meetings, voice your opinions, show your support and give this scheme a chance.

"Xanadu 2 it ain't and such misleading campaigns will be treated with the contempt they deserve. However, lets understand and overcome genuine concerns by genuine people trying to protect their homes and investments."